Parasite Prevention: Practical Steps to Avoid Infections

You can pick up parasites in very ordinary ways — from undercooked meat, a shared bathroom, a tick bite, or a pet's dirty paw. The good news: small habits cut most of the risk. This guide gives clear, everyday actions you can use right away to protect yourself and your family.

Daily habits that really help

Wash your hands often. Do it after using the bathroom, before eating, and after handling pets or raw food. A 20-second scrub with soap removes eggs and germs that hand sanitizer can miss.

Handle food safely. Cook meat and fish to the right temperature, avoid raw or undercooked dishes when you’re unsure, and wash fruits and vegetables under running water. Use separate cutting boards for raw meat and produce.

Use safe water. If the tap water is questionable, boil it for one minute or use a reliable filter. Avoid ice made from unknown water sources while traveling. When drinking bottled water, check seals.

Keep living spaces clean. Clean bathroom surfaces, toilets, and floors where kids play. Dispose of pet feces promptly — parasite eggs can survive in soil for a long time and spread to shoes and hands.

Protect skin from soil and sand. Wear gloves when gardening, and have kids wash hands after playing outside. Avoid barefoot walking in areas where animal feces might be present.

Travel and outdoor tips that matter

Before trips, check travel advice. Some regions need prescription medication to prevent infections like malaria. Talk with a travel clinic or your doctor to get the right meds and timing.

Avoid risky foods and drinks abroad: street food can be wonderful, but if you’re unsure about hygiene, choose cooked hot dishes and peeled fruits. Skip salads and raw seafood in places with poor sanitation.

Prevent insect bites. Use EPA-registered repellents on exposed skin, wear long sleeves and pants at dawn and dusk, and sleep under bed nets in areas where mosquitoes carry disease. For ticks, wear light-colored clothing, tuck pants into socks, and check your body thoroughly after hikes.

Pet care matters. Keep dogs and cats on a vet-recommended deworming schedule, and check them for fleas and ticks. Regular vet visits reduce the chance pets pass parasites to people.

Watch for symptoms and test early. Persistent stomach pain, unexplained weight loss, long-lasting diarrhea, blood in stool, or unusual fevers should prompt a doctor visit. Many parasitic infections need a specific test (stool, blood, or imaging) and a tailored prescription — don’t guess or self-treat with leftover pills.

Small changes add up. Clean hands, safe food, smart travel choices, and regular pet care prevent most parasite problems. If you want clear next steps for a trip or a sick pet, check trusted medical sources or speak to your doctor or vet.