Deadly Dog-Killing Flatworm Discovered in Southern California
TL;DR
The dog-killing Heterobilharzia americana parasite, previously only found in Texas and nearby states, has been discovered in California, posing a threat to dogs in the region. The flatworm, which causes canine schistosomiasis, was found in snails along the Colorado River. Symptoms of infection include loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. While not harmful to humans, the parasite has impacted 11 dogs in California since 2019, prompting warnings for dog owners to be cautious about where their pets swim.
Topics:sciencehealth-and-science#california#dog-killing#flatworm#health-and-science#infection#parasite
- Concern after dog-killing flatworm found in California for first time USA TODAY
- Dog-killing flatworm discovered in Southern California | UCR News | UC Riverside UC Riverside
- Potentially fatal dog parasite found in Southern California river: Report KTLA Los Angeles
- Presence of parasite that's deadly for dogs now confirmed in California: Signs to watch for Los Angeles Times
- California Dog Owners Warned of Lethal River Parasite Newsweek
Want the full story? Read the original reporting
Read on USA TODAY