BDN interviews Lichtenwalner for article about livestock parasites

The Bangor Daily News interviewed Anne Lichtenwalner, an associate professor of animal and veterinary sciences and the director of the University of Maine Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, for an article about livestock parasites. In Maine, the two most common zoonotic parasites — those able to move between livestock and humans — are Ascaris suum (roundworm) and Cryptosporidium (a microscopic parasite commonly found in cows), according to the BDN. Preventive measures include avoiding the use of pig or cow manure as fertilizer for crops, always washing hands after touching manure and washing fresh vegetables before consumption, as well as washing hands after touching any farm animal. “You are protected by your innate and acquired immune system. When you are healthy and practice good hygiene there are not too many things that can get you, but you do need to be savvy and protect yourself,” said Lichtenwalner. “Check and clear your animals for worms before bringing them home and keep up with a worming program. And always, always wash your hands after working with them or working in the garden.