Ancylostomiasis (Hookworm)

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.

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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.)

Active Outbreaks & Recent Cases

Real-time intelligence from global health monitoring and AI-powered surveillance

Data sources: BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ national health agencies

No Active Outbreaks Detected

Our AI-powered surveillance hasn't detected significant Ancylostomiasis (Hookworm) activity in the past 30 days.

Real-time monitoring continues 24/7 across BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ global health agencies

What This Means

Currently, Ancylostomiasis (Hookworm) case counts are within baseline expectations globally. However, diseases can emerge rapidly, which is why continuous monitoring is critical.

Stay Prepared

Download the Virus Watcher app to get instant alerts if Ancylostomiasis (Hookworm) activity increases in your region or travel destinations.

Prevention Remains Important

Even without active outbreaks, understanding Ancylostomiasis (Hookworm) prevention helps protect you and your community:

  • 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.)
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Expert Resources & References

Trusted information from leading health organizations

CDC

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

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WHO

Global disease surveillance and guidelines from the World Health Organization

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Research

Latest peer-reviewed research and clinical studies

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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: 2026-06-03

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