Amoebiasis is a parasitic infection caused by the presence of Entamoeba histolytica in the body. The parasite can cause both intestinal and extra-intestinal diseases. Intestinal pain is manifested by fever, chills, hemorrhagic or mucoid diarrhea, abdominal pain, or diarrhea alternating with constipation. Amoebiasis is present everywhere, but is more easily transmitted via the fecal-oral route. Here's what you can do to avoid getting this infection.
Steps
Step 1. Strengthen your immune system
It is your first defense and keeping yourself in good shape will help you prevent Entameoba histolytica infection:
- Drink enough water every day to keep yourself adequately hydrated.
- Eat lots of fiber. You find it in fresh fruit, vegetables and grains.
- Do not dilute stomach acids - they destroy most parasites. If you can, avoid antacids and baking soda (pure), and don't drink liquids just before, during, or after a meal.
- Take vitamins if you are not getting enough with food. Support the digestive system with a daily multivitamin supplement rich in zinc and vitamin A.
Step 2. Be careful when traveling
American research from the early 2000s found that over 50% of people infected with parasites had been infected while traveling. Be very careful about the origin of the food and water you take, and make sure they are hygienically guaranteed. Also pay close attention to where you swim.
Step 3. Maintain good hygiene
Cleaning is essential to prevent amoebiasis infection, whether you are at home or on the go:
- Always wash your hands with soap and warm running water for at least 10 seconds after defecating and changing baby's diapers.
- Always wash your hands with soap and warm running water before cooking or eating. Also brush your nails before preparing food.
- Clean the toilet seat before using it, especially in public restrooms. Take some alcohol wipes or wet wipes that you find on the market that are suitable for this purpose.
Step 4. Pay attention to the water
Do not drink untreated water contaminated with feces. Boil it before drinking it, if you don't know its origin, or use bottled water if you are not sure of its quality, especially when traveling.
Step 5. Be responsible and take all steps to handle and eat food safely
Do not eat unpeeled or uncooked fruit or vegetables, or of questionable quality. Always wash it thoroughly, peel the fruit and boil the vegetables before eating them.
- Cook the food above 50 ° C, so you can kill this parasite.
- Keep fruits and vegetables dry when you are storing them. Entamoeba histolytica bacteria kill themselves by dehydration.
- Avoid eating and drinking in public places that seem unclean or have questionable health practices. Do not share sauce containers with others when you are at a party.
- Be careful with raw salads as they can contain the parasite.
Step 6. Check for flies, as they can carry parasites
Protect food from contamination by covering it.
Step 7. Dispose of all human feces in a hygienic way
If you have a garden near a septic tank, make sure the tank is tightly closed, has no leaks, and is drained regularly by qualified personnel. If you are in a campsite, keep the personal hygiene area away from where you cook or sleep.
Advice
- Washing your hands in cold water is always better than not washing them at all.
- Educate others, especially those who are already infected, about the importance of hygiene.
- Those who work in childcare centers and hospitals have a greater risk of coming into contact with these parasites.
Warnings
- Do not immerse fruit and vegetables in disinfectants: their action in preventing amoebiasis is not proven, and they could harm you.
- It is not recommended to perform chemoprophylaxis, that is, taking drugs to prevent infection.
