# data[].attributes.body
Hi, I am Weston Warren and today I will be sharing with you (the audience) a parasite I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy. If you have a weak stomach now is the time to turn away

# data[].attributes.body
This unsightly parasite is scientifically known as Loa loa (African Eye Worm) and causes the disease known as Loiasis

# data[].attributes.body
Symptoms of this disease include swelling in the arms and legs near joints. The most recognizable symptom of this disease is a visible worm that appears in the eye, which most commonly only cause irritation and discomfort.

# data[].attributes.body
Slight swelling can also occur in the eyelids. It is hard to see but the arrows help indicate where swelling has occured

# data[].attributes.body
Loa loa is passed to humans through the infected bites of Deer Flies. If a Deer Fly bites an infected human and consumes that human's blood, it will then be infected as well.

# data[].attributes.body
Here is an example of a Deer Fly, which is responsible for the transmission of Loa Loa

# data[].attributes.body
While worm extraction out of the eye seems to be a great priority, this does not rid the patient of Loiasis. Often, diethylcarbamazine treatments are used to rid the body of the parasite. If these do not work after multiple attempts, doctors may turn to albendazole to kill the parasites.

# data[].attributes.body
Here is a photo of another extraction

# data[].attributes.body
We are fortunate that we do not have to deal with Loa loa here in Mississippi. The fly that transmits Loa loa is found in Central Africa, specifically near rain forested areas. Anyone is susceptible to Loiasis and the best way to avoid contracting the disease is to steer clear of swampy, wet areas and wood fires.

# data[].attributes.body
Unfortunately, there is no current prevention plans imposed by any governing authority. The best advice is to stay away from low lying wetlands and wood fires. Deer flies are attracted to these areas as well human movement. The only other tip is to only travel to places where parasite treatment is ongoing and frequent. This reduces the chance that you will encounter someone who could spread the parasite.