What is animal (zoonotic) hookworm infection in people?

There are many different species of hookworms, some are human parasites and some are animal
parasites. People can be infected by larvae of animal hookworms, usually dog and cat
hookworms. The most common result of animal hookworm infection is a skin condition called
cutaneous larva migrans.
What are the clinical manifestations of animal (zoonotic) hookworm in people?

Cutaneous larval migrans (CLM) in a person's foot. Courtesy Vince Conte, MD, Miami-Dade
County Health Department
Most animal hookworm infections result in a skin condition called cutaneous larva migrans.
People are infected when animal hookworm larvae penetrate the skin, causing a local reaction
that is red and itchy. Raised, red tracks appear in the skin where the larvae have been and these
tracks may move in the skin day to day, following the larvaes movements. The symptoms of
itching and pain can last several weeks before the larvae die and the reaction to the larvae
resolves. In rare cases, certain types of animal hookworm may infect the intestine and cause
abdominal pain, discomfort, and diarrhea.
What should I do if I think I have hookworm infection?
See your health care provider to discuss the possibility of infection and, if necessary, to be
examined. There is no blood test for animal hookworm infection.
What is the treatment for animal hookworm infection?
The animal hookworm larvae that cause cutaneous larva migrans (CLM) usually do not survive
more than 5 6 weeks in the human host. In most patients with CLM, the signs and symptoms
resolve without medical treatment. However, treatment may help control symptoms and help
prevent secondary bacterial infections. Antiparasitic treatments may be prescribed by your health
care provider.
Can I get hookworm from my pet?
Yes, but not directly. Puppies and kittens are especially likely to have hookworm infections.
Animals that are infected pass hookworm eggs in their stools. The eggs can hatch into larvae,
and both eggs and larvae may be found in dirt where animals have been. People may become
infected while walking barefoot or when exposed skin comes in contact with contaminated soil
or sand. The larvae in the contaminated soil or sand will burrow into the skin and cause the skin

to become irritated in that area. For example, this can happen if a child is walking barefoot or
playing in an area where dogs or cats have been (especially puppies or kittens).
How can I prevent animal hookworm infection?
Wearing shoes and taking other protective measures to avoid skin contact with sand or soil will
prevent infection with zoonotic hookworms. Travelers to tropical and subtropical climates,
especially where beach exposures are likely, should be advised to wear shoes and use protective
mats or other coverings to prevent direct skin contact with sand or soil.
Routine veterinary care of dogs and cats, including regular deworming, will reduce
environmental contamination with zoonotic hookworm eggs and larvae. Prompt disposal of
animal feces prevents eggs from hatching and contaminating soil -- which makes it important for
control of this parasitic infection.