Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Pets Transmit Dangerous Parasites

February 5, 2009, Chula Vista, CA – A study by the Stanley Medical Research Institute and Johns Hopkins University Medical Center links Toxoplasma, a cat-borne parasite, to neurotic behavior in infected men and women. Between 25 and 50 percent of the world’s human population – and 30% of the U.S. population – may be infected.

Toxoplasma eggs are shed in an infected cat's feces and then passed to humans when changing cat litter, gardening and petting. In 2000, studies revealed Toxoplasma takes over the brain’s main fear center in infected rats, making them fearless of their predators.

There are over 100 types of parasites. In addition to cats, sources include insects, blood transfusions, and contaminated foods, including undercooked meats, and fruits and vegetables improperly washed.

Dr. Frank Nova, Chief of the Laboratory for Parasitic Diseases of the National Institute of Health, warns, “In terms of numbers there are more parasitic infections acquired in this country than in Africa.” Why? Zoltan P. Rona, MD, author of numerous health books, says, “because of increased international travel, contamination of the water supply and the overuse of chemicals, mercury and prescription antibiotics”.

Parasites range in size from microscopic to several feet long, but regardless of size, parasites can cause illness and death. To stay healthy and avoid infection cook food well, thoroughly wash all fruits and vegetables, and wash your hands frequently.

Dr. Clark Store provides a hand sanitizer spray that helps eliminate bacteria from hands and under fingernails. Hand sanitation is essential after changing a diaper, working in the garden, after bathroom use, and before meals. The spray can also be used to sterilize kitchen countertops, an iodine solution that when mixed with water creates a Food Sanitation Solution; it can also be used as a food supplement. Dr. Clark Articles