What is it?
Rat lungworm is a parasite that was brought to Hawaii from Southeast Asia by — you guessed it — rats. The parasite can be transferred to slugs/snails when they crawl through rat feces. Flatworms eat slugs and can also be carriers. The Semi-Slug (Parmarion martensi) can be more heavily infected with the parasite.
How do humans contract it?
By eating raw/under cooked snails and slugs or food that has come into contact with their slime trails.
They may be hidden in produce and missed upon initial inspection. The slime trails left behind by infected gastropods also contain high amounts of the parasite. Slime trails are everywhere when you start to take notice of them. Sidewalks, picnic tables, counter tops, produce —makes you want to go wash your hands, right?
How do I know if I have been infected? What do I do?
Before you consult Dr. Google, know that symptoms are usually flu-like:
If you think there is any possibility that you have contracted this parasite, seek medical help immediately.
If all of this sound really scary, it’s because it is. The best measures you can take to protect yourself, your family, and your pets (yes, animals can be affected as well!) is to be informed and aware of the causes and symptoms. Be vigilant in inspecting and thoroughly washing your produce with soap and water. Wash your hands after working outside and especially before eating.
Greg Stout has over 30 years of experience in the landscape and irrigation industry. Born in Illinois, Greg relocated to Hawaii in the 1970's and has been providing quality design and installation work to the people of Maui since 2000 as the owner of Maui Lawn & Landscape, LLC.