Tennessee

Cysticercosis in Tennessee

Cysticercosis is a parasitic infection caused by the larval stage (cysticerci) of the pork tapeworm, *Taenia solium*. It occurs when humans ingest tapeworm eggs, leading to cysts forming in various tissues like the brain, muscles, or eyes. This disease is most common in developing regions with poor sanitation and free-ranging pigs.

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What is Cysticercosis?

The presence of cysts in human tissues was recognized even in ancient times. However, the connection between these cysts, the pork tapeworm (*Taenia solium*), and human disease became clearer in the 19th century with advancements in parasitology. Today, neurocysticercosis is recognized as the leading cause of acquired epilepsy worldwide.

Symptoms

Neurocysticercosis (brain cysts): Seizures (most common), headaches, hydrocephalus, focal neurological deficits (e.g., weakness), altered mental status.
Muscular cysts: Often asymptomatic, but can cause muscle pain or weakness, or visible lumps.
Ocular cysts (eye cysts): Visual disturbances, blurred vision, pain, inflammation, retinal detachment.
Subcutaneous cysts: Palpable, movable, non-tender nodules under the skin.

Transmission

Humans contract cysticercosis by ingesting microscopic eggs of the *Taenia solium* tapeworm. This typically occurs through consumption of food or water contaminated with fecal matter from a person harboring an adult *Taenia solium* tapeworm. Direct hand-to-mouth transfer of eggs from an infected individual can also occur. Once ingested, the eggs hatch, and larvae then migrate and form cysts in various tissues.

Contagious Period: Varies by disease

Prevention

Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the toilet and before handling food.
Cook pork to safe temperatures (minimum 145°F/63°C with a 3-minute rest).
Wash and peel fruits and vegetables, especially when traveling in endemic areas.
Ensure access to safe drinking water and avoid unboiled tap water.
Improve sanitation and hygiene practices, particularly pig rearing and waste disposal, in endemic areas.

Tennessee Health Resources

Local health department information and state-specific prevention guidance

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

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Tennessee Health Department

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

→ Tennessee Department of Health → CDC Cysticercosis Information → CDC Health Topics

Understanding Cysticercosis: Key Questions

Whether you live in Tennessee or are traveling there, knowing the symptoms, timeline, and when to seek care helps you act quickly if exposure occurs.

When to Seek Care

Seek care if you experience severe dehydration, bloody stools, high fever, or symptoms lasting more than 3 days. Children under 5, adults over 65, and immunocompromised individuals should seek care earlier.

Emergency symptoms: Severe dehydration, inability to keep fluids down for 12 or more hours, or neurological symptoms require emergency care.

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: 2026-07-18

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