Roundworm eggs can be found in soil wherever dogs and cats have passed faeces. Studies from all over the world have demonstrated high rates (13-35%) of soil contamination with canine roundworm eggs in public places such as sandpits, parks, playgrounds and beaches.²

If roundworm eggs are accidentally ingested by a human, the parasite can migrate to internal organs, affecting muscles, eyes and the brain. Young children are considered most at risk as they are more likely to play in contaminated areas and place things in their mouths. A recent study estimated that 7% of Australians have antibodies to canine roundworm, indicating that they have been exposed to the parasite.³

Hookworm eggs are passed in the faeces of infested dogs and cats. The eggs hatch and the larvae can infest people by penetrating the skin (e.g. if walking barefoot on contaminated sand or soil). The larvae can then migrate through the skin resulting in itchy and inflamed skin lesions and other more serious diseases.