Pets can sometimes carry parasites that affect humans. Example: Toxocara canis - roundworm of dogs that can infect humans, causing toxocariasis, which may affect organs like the liver, lungs, eyes, and rarely the central nervous system. Do you regularly deworm your pets?

Walking barefoot in contaminated soil can expose people to certain parasites. Example: Ancylostoma duodenale - hookworm that infects humans, primarily causing iron-deficiency anemia and gastrointestinal symptoms. Did you know some parasites can penetrate skin directly?

Some parasites enter through contaminated water or food. Example: Cryptosporidium - protozoan parasite that infects the intestines of humans and animals. Have you ever gotten sick after traveling or drinking untreated water?

“Which of these symptoms do you experience most? These can sometimes be linked to gut infections.

Parasites strongly stimulate Immunoglobulin E. IgE binds to mast cells and makes them extremely reactive. When IgE-coated mast cells encounter parasite proteins: 1. Mast cells degranulate 2. Histamine is released 3. Inflammation increases The problem is that once IgE levels are elevated, mast cells may react to many other triggers such as: - Foods - Environmental allergens - Temperature changes - Stress