Are the coccidial parasites of my dog infectious to humans?
The most common coccidia found in dogs do not have any affect on humans. Less common types of coccidia are potentially infectious to humans. One parasite, called Cryptosporidium, may be carried by dogs or cats and may be transmitted to people. This parasite has also been found in public water supplies in some major cites. Coccidial parasites pose a health risk for immunosuppressed humans (i.e., AIDS patients, those taking immune suppressing drugs, cancer patients, the elderly). Good hygiene and proper disposal of dog feces are important in minimizing risk of transmission of all canine parasites to humans. Although there is risk of the dog transmitting these two particular parasites to humans, it does not warrant removing the dog from the household. Page URL: http://www.sniksnak.com/doghealth/coccidiosis.html Resource References: Much, much appreciation to Dr. Raymond Van Lienden, DVM of Clifton, VA USA for his extensive research in locating the material found on this page. Thank you, d
