Parasites

[tryme]

Can humans catch parasites off our reptiles? What will happen if we do? Can our other animals such as cats and dogs etc catch them?

 

[ChromaChameleons]

Theoretically , its possible. Be sure to wash down enclosures regularly with hot water or hydrogem peroxide. Hand wash afyer every encounter . Try not to cross contaminate your many chameleons. And might be worth while to purchase a box of surgical gloves.

 

[dodolah]

Can humans catch parasites off our reptiles? What will happen if we do? Can our other animals such as cats and dogs etc catch them?

yes. You can also infect your chameleon, if you have parasites.
most of the cross contamination derived from ingesting the chameleon stools.
if we happened to ingest the eggs, then the cycle begin.
Your body will probably live in "harmony" with the parasites until your immune system goes out of whack and the outbreak will happen.

Without trying to freak you out, about 80% of human populations live with some type of parasites (macroscopic and/or microscopic) in their body.
They are everywhere.

Although this sounds outlandish, there is a possibility that we do not realize that we are ingesting the stool.

Let say that you forgot to wash your hands after handling your chameleon or cleaning his cage and you eat your dinner.
Or if you have a bad habit of biting your nails.

that's why i do not recommend letting your chameleon free roam all over your furnitures.
Use nitrile gloves when handling your cham.
And Always wash your hands b4 and after doing your chameleon- related activity.

hope that helps.

 

[tryme]

I'm scared lol thanks for the help though.

 

[ChromaChameleons]

No need to be scared.. lots of nastier opportunities to acquire parasites and diseases out there. Just riding a public bus exposes you to all sorts of stuff, from Tuberculosis to Hepatitis to cold and flu viruses, and a whole lot more. Just practice good hygiene around your chams and you'll be fine.