Dracunculiasis

Updated: 2019-12-18

Overview

Dracunculiasis occurs when people drink water contaminated with water fleas that carry guinea worm eggs.

Symptoms

Symptoms develop about a year after infection, when a large worm emerges under the skin. This causes a painful blister. When the blister bursts, the worm begins to exit the body.

Treatments

The worm can be pulled out a few centimeters each day. The process usually takes weeks. Permanent damage is uncommon.