Hookworms may last for 17-18 years in the intestines of humans. In Third World countries, hookworm infections are a major cause of anemia and they contribute to malnutrition. There are 65,000 deaths annually in the tropics from hookworms. Hundreds of thousands suffer from anemia as a result of hookworm infection.
Dr. Pritchard is launching a new study to investigate how hookworms suppress the allergic process. Each volunteer will be asked to allow themself to be infected with 10 hookworms. They will then be studied for a number of months to years. Dr. Pritchard notes that people without nutritional risks or anemia should not have problems with experimental hookworm infection. Hookworm infection is very treatable with oral medication when it is desirable to get rid of them. None of his original study patients became severely ill or died. In fact, he claims some of the infected study patients asked to keep their hookworms. Furthermore, Dr. Pritchard says people from all over the world are emailing him requests to be infected with hookworm to treat their medical problems.
What do you think about being infected with hookworms to manage your asthma or allergy problems?
If you had the choice between allergy shots every month for 5 years, or a wrap for the arm containing 10 hookworms to start your infection, which one would you choose?
A parting suggestion: If you plan on vacationing in the tropics, or in a warm, humid area with questionable sanitation, always wear shoes.
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