Colorado

Ancylostomiasis (Hookworm) in Colorado

Ancylostomiasis, commonly known as hookworm infection, is a parasitic disease caused by intestinal roundworms, primarily *Ancylostoma duodenale* and *Necator americanus*. It predominantly affects humans in tropical and subtropical regions with poor sanitation, leading to intestinal disease and often significant iron deficiency anemia. Track Ancylostomiasis (Hookworm) activity and outbreaks specific to Colorado.

Open Web App
iOS Android

What is Ancylostomiasis (Hookworm)?

Hookworm infection was first thoroughly described by Angelo Dubini in 1838, linking it to severe anemia. Its widespread impact, particularly in the Southern United States in the early 20th century, led to major public health initiatives like the Rockefeller Sanitary Commission. These campaigns significantly advanced the understanding of parasitic diseases, sanitation, and their role in public health.

Symptoms

  • Skin (initial): Itchy rash, often called \"ground itch,\" at the site where larvae penetrate.
  • Lungs (transient): Mild cough or wheezing, sometimes a low-grade fever (often asymptomatic).
  • Intestinal (chronic):
  • Iron deficiency anemia: Fatigue, weakness, pallor, shortness of breath, dizziness.
  • Abdominal pain, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and weight loss.
  • In children, impaired physical growth and cognitive development.

Transmission

Hookworm is primarily transmitted when infective larvae, found in soil contaminated by the feces of infected individuals, penetrate the skin—most commonly through bare feet. These larvae then migrate through the bloodstream to the lungs, are coughed up and swallowed, and mature into adult worms in the small intestine, where they attach and feed on blood.

Contagious Period: Varies by disease

Prevention

  • Wear shoes, especially in areas where soil may be contaminated with human feces.
  • Practice good sanitation, including proper disposal of human waste in latrines or toilets.
  • Avoid defecating on the ground.
  • Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the toilet.
  • Mass drug administration programs in highly endemic regions can reduce community-wide infection rates. (No vaccine is currently available.)

Colorado Health Resources

Local health department information and state-specific prevention guidance

We're Monitoring Colorado

Our AI-powered surveillance continuously monitors Ancylostomiasis (Hookworm) activity across Colorado. We track data from state health departments, local hospitals, CDC reports, and 50+ global health sources to provide early warning of emerging threats.

Get instant push notifications when Ancylostomiasis (Hookworm) activity increases in Colorado or your specific county.

Open Web App
iOS Android

Colorado Health Department

For official state health alerts, vaccination locations, and public health guidance specific to Colorado, visit your state health department's website.

→ Colorado Department of Health → Find Ancylostomiasis (Hookworm) Vaccination Near You → CDC Travel Health Notices

Protecting Yourself in Colorado

Whether you live in Colorado, are traveling there, or have family in the state, understanding Ancylostomiasis (Hookworm) prevention is essential. Follow these evidence-based prevention measures:

Prevention Measures

  • Wear shoes, especially in areas where soil may be contaminated with human feces.
  • Practice good sanitation, including proper disposal of human waste in latrines or toilets.
  • Avoid defecating on the ground.
  • Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the toilet.
  • Mass drug administration programs in highly endemic regions can reduce community-wide infection rates. (No vaccine is currently available.)

When to Seek Care

If you experience symptoms of Ancylostomiasis (Hookworm) in Colorado, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment improve outcomes significantly.

Emergency symptoms: If you experience severe symptoms, difficulty breathing, or signs of dehydration, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

Expert Resources & References

Trusted information from leading health organizations

CDC

Official guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

View CDC Resources →

WHO

Global disease surveillance and guidelines from the World Health Organization

View WHO Resources →

Research

Latest peer-reviewed research and clinical studies

View Research →

Medically Reviewed Content

Disease information on Virus Watcher is reviewed by our Chief Epidemiologist, a former CDC lead analyst for FluSight forecasting. Outbreak data is aggregated from verified sources including BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ national health agencies. This information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice.

Last reviewed: 2026-06-29

Get Ancylostomiasis (Hookworm) Alerts for Colorado

Receive instant push notifications when Ancylostomiasis (Hookworm) activity increases in Colorado or your travel destinations. Track 200+ diseases with location-based alerts. Used by healthcare systems, EMS, schools, and travelers worldwide.

Open Web App
iOS Android
Enterprise Solutions
Virus Watcher
iOS Android Web App