If you notice raccoons around your property, you should contact a wildlife control expert immediately. Not only can they get into trash cans and make a mess, but they can also carry a disease that is very dangerous to humans. This zoonotic disease is called Baylisascaris Procyonis and is very common in raccoons. The effects of this disease can be deadly, and we will discuss the disease in more detail below.

Causes of Baylisascaris Procyonis

The roundworms are found in the droppings of raccoons, and if somebody mishandles a raccoon or touches an area where they left feces, they could be at risk. This disease is especially dangerous for children who may come into contact with the infected feces when playing in the yard.

If infected, the larvae will hatch in our intestine and then travel through the blood and organs causing Larva Migrans syndrome. This usually happens shortly after ingestion, which is why this disease is so dangerous. The severity of this disease depends on the amount of eggs that are ingested. After being hatched, the larvae will travel to the brain, spinal cord, liver, and other organs.

Symptoms of Baylisascaris Procyonis

The symptoms include nausea, fatigue, lack of coordination, confusion, muscle loss, blindness, or even death. The symptoms often show up after a week of initial contact with the infected feces.

Treatment for Baylisascaris Procyonis

If you have noticed raccoons nearby and believe you may be infected, you need to consult a medical professional immediately. Then you should let them know you may have been in touch with raccoon droppings recently and let them know of your symptoms. There is no specific medicine available on the market for treating Baylisascaris, but most doctors usually have prescriptions that will help get the ringworms out of your body.

We recommend that you give us a call as soon as you notice raccoons on your property in order to prevent this disease from ever being a threat. If you want to prevent a raccoon infestation, we recommend that you cover up your trash cans and do not leave any food or waste sitting outside. If you need help removing any wildlife from your property, give us a call!