The roundworm is common in raccoons and can be found anywhere in the United States. The eggs are shed in feces. They can survive in the environment for long periods and are highly infectious.
Raccoons usually defecate in communal sites termed latrines. These may be located:
(1) in tree stumps or on logs
(2) on roofs of houses or garages
(3) associated with house decks
(4) on large rocks
(5) in woodpiles
(6) in haylofts
Latrines may be found close to human habitation if there is something that serves as an attractant to raccoons:
(1) pet food
(2) ornamental pond
(3) pool or hot tub
(4) garbage
(5) sandboxes
(6) easily accessible denning sites
Factors increasing the population density of raccoons:
(1) abundant food and water
(2) mild weather
(3) absence of predators
(4) absence of epizootic disease
The eggs have a proteinaceous coat that makes the eggs sticky. Eggs may be acquired by:
(1) direct contact with the feces
(2) transport by water to contaminate items left outside.
Persons at risk:
(1) infants and small children < 4 years of age
(2) developmentally disabled persons
Modes of acquisition:
(1) pica or geophagia
(2) placing a toy or other item in the mouth
(3) placing dirty fingers in the mouth
(4) placing infected plant material in mouth (for example, placing a trig in the mouth)
Decontamination of a site:
(1) Remove feces wearing complete personal protective equipment and place in biohazard bags. Bury, burn or send to a landfill.
(2) Pour boiling water on infected surfaces.
(3) Handle potentially exposed toys or other items with gloves. Boil the item if possible. Else discard in biohazard bag.
