Brain-damaging tapeworm risk surges in Mumbai amid monsoon flooding and poor sanitation; know its symptoms, prevention tips and other information
This infection spreads mainly through the consumption of undercooked pork or contaminated food and water, risks that intensify during the monsoon season due to poor sanitation, flooding, and hygiene lapses. Neurocysticercosis can lead to severe neurological symptoms like seizures and chronic headaches, especially in children and those with weakened immune systems. Awareness and timely medical intervention are crucial to preventing irreversible damage.
What is brain damaging tapeworm
Taenia solium begins its life cycle in the human intestines (taeniasis) when people consume undercooked pork or ingest tapeworm eggs through contaminated food or water. In some cases, the larvae (not the adult worm) travel through the bloodstream and lodge in the brain, forming cysts. That's when it becomes neurocysticercosis, a condition linked to seizures, headaches, and neurological damage
What is Neurocysticercosis and how does it spread
Neurocysticercosis is an infection caused by the larvae of the pork tapeworm (Taenia solium).
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
New Launch at Godrej Sector 12 | Luxurious 3 BHK + S & 4 BHK Homes @₹2.90 Cr*
Godrej Majesty
Learn More
Undo
It begins when a person consumes undercooked pork or food and water contaminated with tapeworm eggs. These eggs hatch in the intestines, causing taeniasis, an intestinal infection. If untreated, the larvae can travel to muscles, skin, eyes, and crucially, the brain, where they develop into cysts. This advanced stage—neurocysticercosis—can cause serious neurological damage.
During the monsoon, flooding and poor sanitation exacerbate the risk by spreading contamination, especially when basic food hygiene is neglected.
Neurocysticercosis symptoms and health risks
Many infected individuals show no symptoms initially, but once cysts form in the brain, serious issues arise. The most common symptom is seizures, often leading to epilepsy, which is a leading cause of late-onset seizures in developing countries like India. Other symptoms include debilitating headaches, confusion, and in severe cases, permanent neurological impairment.
Children and people with weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable to developing serious complications from this infection.
How MRI and CT scans reveal brain tapeworm infection
Source: New York Post
Doctors rely on imaging techniques like MRI scans and CT scans to detect cysts in the brain and to determine the stage of infection:
Vesicular stage: Early infection with no swelling.
Colloidal stage: Inflammation and swelling around cysts.
Calcified stage: Old cysts that have hardened.
Early detection is critical for effective treatment and to reduce neurological damage.
Prevention tips to stay safe during monsoon season
Preventing neurocysticercosis requires strict attention to food and water safety, especially during the vulnerable monsoon months. Key preventive measures include:
Avoid eating undercooked pork.
Wash vegetables thoroughly before consumption.
Drink clean, safe water only.
Maintain proper hand hygiene, especially before meals.
Purchase meat only from trusted, hygienic sources.
Practicing these habits significantly reduces the risk of infection.
Why immediate medical attention is crucial
Experts stress that symptoms such as persistent headaches or seizures should never be ignored. According to neurologist Dr. Pavan Pai, timely medical evaluation can be life-saving and help prevent irreversible brain damage caused by neurocysticercosis. With monsoon flooding increasing exposure risks, awareness and prompt diagnosis have never been more important.
Also Read |
UK woman dies for 17 minutes later shares haunting near death experience revealing rare genetic disorder and life saving heart transplant
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
41 minutes ago
- Time of India
‘Supermom' gifts 42ltrs breast milk, saves 30 babies
1 2 Lucknow: In India as well in UP, where one in three mothers do not breastfeed their babies exclusively for six months, Varanasi's Sunita Devi has emerged as a shining example of the true generosity of a mother. Sunita, a resident of Subhadra village, who delivered twin boys on May 31 but lost one to medical complications, has not only fed her own baby but has also come forward to help others in need. In the past two months, Sunita has donated over 42 litres of excess breast milk to save at least 30 fragile babies in thoughts on breastfeeding and breast milk donation are also inspiring. "Motherhood is a blessing, and feeding one's baby is the first duty of a mother. And if nature has blessed someone with excess, donating it to some other baby in need is an act of humanity," Sunita told TOI. Recalling her elders' teachings, she said, "Mother's milk is believed to be an elixir against diseases; discarding it or wasting it is no less than a crime." Sunita is staying in the Comprehensive Lactation Management Centre (CLMC) in the department of paediatrics at Sir Sunder Lal Hospital, Institute of Medical Science-Banaras Hindu University (IMS-BHU) to help her baby recover from preterm delivery complications and expresses her milk at least eight times a day. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Stylish New Mobility Scooters Available for Seniors (Prices May Surprise You) Mobility Scooter | Search Ads Search Now Undo "This is no small thing. Myths, misconceptions, and even cultural practices tend to prevent women from feeding their own babies. Numbers from the National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5) show that at least 35% of mothers do not feed their babies exclusively for six months. In this scenario, Sunita is not just a super mom; she is also a fairy godmother to many babies," said Dr Anu Sharma, a faculty member in paediatrics department and in-charge of NICU. "CLMC plays a vital role in promoting, supporting, and sustaining breastfeeding. It provides expert lactation management, addresses breastfeeding challenges, and helps save lives of vulnerable newborns through the provision of screened donor human milk," she said. Experts pointed out that breastfeeding was the cornerstone of optimal newborn care, particularly for preterm and low birthweight (LBW) infants. "In cases of preterm delivery, and at times due to various reasons, mothers do not have enough milk for their babies. It is here that donors like Sunita become a saviour," said Prof Ashok Kumar, former head of paediatrics, IMS-BHU. Dr Vaishnavi Pandey, project manager at community empowerment lab which is supporting IMS-BHU in strengthening CLMC, said that Sunita's generosity was even more praiseworthy as she donated milk despite her personal loss. "She was pregnant with two boys; one of them died a week after birth due to premature delivery complications. Salute to her selflessness," she said. General manager, child health, National Health Mission UP, Dr Milind Wardhan, said, "State govt organises activities to dispel myths around breastfeeding each year in the first week of Aug. Families should create a conducive environment for new mothers so that they can feed their babies without any inhibition."
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
UP revamps healthcare, medical edu with reforms and infra
Lucknow: Once labelled a BIMARU state, UP has become a frontrunner in terms of quality health services over the past eight years. Sharing details, a govt spokesperson said: "A testament to this progress is the operationalising of 80 medical colleges, including 44 in the govt sector and 36 in the private sector — a milestone achievement that is reshaping the landscape of healthcare and medical education in the state. " Teaching commenced in autonomous medical colleges in key districts such as Bijnor, Bulandshahr, Kushinagar, Pilibhit, Sultanpur, Kanpur Dehat, Lalitpur, Auraiya, Chandauli, Gonda, Sonbhadra, Lakhimpur Kheri and Kaushambi. In addition, medical colleges under the public-private partnership (PPP) model have been established in Maharajganj, Shamli and Sambhal. There was also an increase in MBBS and PG seats — govt sector MBBS seats rose to 5,250, while the private sector offers 6,550. An additional 350 MBBS seats were added in the three new PPP-model colleges. PG (MD/MS/Diploma) seats in the govt sector more than doubled from 900 to 1,871. The private sector now offers 2,100 PG seats, with another 250 seats added for superspecialty courses. Alongside, a Govt Ayurvedic College was established in Ayodhya, and a Govt Homeopathic Medical College in Varanasi. The state currently operates 2,110 Ayurvedic, 254 Unani and 1,585 Homeopathic hospitals, along with eight Ayurvedic, two Unani and nine Homeopathic colleges and their affiliated hospitals. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like See the original Harry Potter Cast Then and Now Watch More Undo The state also set up the Mahayogi Guru Gorakhnath AYUSH University to strengthen traditional systems of medicine. Additionally, the decision to establish an AYUSH Board will provide an institutional framework for promoting and regulating Ayurveda, Homeopathy and Unani medicine in the state. The govt also worked to improve access to high-end treatment facilities. For instance, a Centre for Advanced Molecular Diagnostics and Research for Cancer was established at the Kalyan Singh Superspecialty Cancer Institute in Lucknow. Simultaneously, construction is underway for a 500-bed Advanced Paediatric Centre and a Diabetes Centre at SGPGI. A School of Medical Research and Technology is being set up along with a 500-bed superspecialty hospital at IIT Kanpur, focusing on research-driven healthcare solutions. The govt also made progress in nursing and paramedical education. Construction commenced on 25 out of 27 approved nursing colleges, with 7,000 additional nursing seats and 2,000 paramedical seats being introduced. Besides, 35 ANM training centres, which were non-functional for years, have been revived. In terms of higher medical education, the state was gifted with prestigious institutions like the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Medical University in Lucknow, and AIIMS facilities in Gorakhpur and Rae Bareli. Officials said that the CM consistently focused on strengthening grassroots health infrastructure. Over 352 community health centres (CHCs) were upgraded with FRU facilities, and 72 health units were connected to solar energy. In just one year, more than 10,000 sub-health centres were electrified, significantly enhancing rural healthcare access. Dialysis centres were established in all districts, bringing relief to kidney patients. CT scan facilities are now available in 74 districts, providing affordable and accessible diagnostic services.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Stay strong this monsoon: Why adults need a yearly shot too!
This summer, the month of May brought a surprise downpour—India saw its heaviest rainfall since 1901. Monsoon weather can be a real rollercoaster, one moment it's overcast with cloudy skies and cool breezes, and the next, the sun is blazing. These sudden shifts in temperature, along with rising humidity, can take a toll on your immune system, making it easier for seasonal bugs like the flu to spread. Tropical countries like India experience a high frequency of flu (or influenza) cases during this time. Flu viruses like A(H1N1), A(H3N2), and Influenza B don't take a break—they circulate all year long. That's why getting your annual flu shot is one of the best ways to stay protected, no matter the season. According to Dr Agam Vora, General Secretary for the Association of Physicians of India, Medical Director, Vora Clinic, Mumbai, 'A lot of people mix up the flu with a regular cold—but the flu is much more serious. While both can cause symptoms like a sore throat or cough, the flu often comes with a high fever, body aches, headaches and nausea4. Spotting these symptoms early can help you recover faster and avoid complications. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like They Were So Beautiful Before; Now Look At Them; Number 10 Will Shock You Reportingly Undo And since flu viruses keep changing every year, the vaccine is updated regularly—so getting your flu shot annually is the best way to stay protected. ' To protect against the flu this monsoon, here are 3 steps you can take: 1. Wash your hands often with soap and water or use a hand sanitizer when you're on the go. Try not to touch your face—especially your eyes, nose, or mouth—and don't forget to clean things you touch a lot, like your phone or doorknobs 2. Try to keep your distance from anyone who's feeling under the weather. Let fresh air in by opening windows when you can, and don't forget to wear a mask in crowded places 3. Make sure you and your family follow all the steps to be protected—keep up with your child's vaccination schedule along with your own and any adults living in your household. Since flu viruses keep changing, the vaccine is updated every year based on the latest strains identified by the World Health Organization (WHO). That's why getting vaccinated every year is so important Dr Jejoe Karankumar, Medical Affairs Director, Abbott India said, 'Vaccines aren't just for kids—adults need protection too, especially from infections like the flu. Getting a flu shot every year doesn't just lower your chances of getting sick, it also helps reduce the severity of symptoms if you do catch it. It's a simple step in preventive care that can make a big difference, especially for elderly or people with comorbidities.' Even if you're healthy, the flu can still slow you down—with missed work, doctor visits, and sudden health expenses. That's why the World Health Organization recommends getting a flu shot every year. It works well for all age groups—including pregnant women and people with health conditions—and helps protect you from serious illness. While we can't control the weather, we can take charge of our health. An annual flu shot is a simple, science-backed step that protects not just you, but those around you—especially the elderly, young children, and people with chronic conditions. So this monsoon, don't wait for symptoms to strike. Talk to your doctor about getting your flu vaccine. Because staying healthy isn't just about reacting to illness—it's about preventing it.
