Parasites of Homo sapiens

Homo sapiens rank among the most parasitized of all animals. In part this is because we know so much about all aspects of the biology of our species, but in addition, our varied habitat and diet and our global distribution exposes us to more infections than any other species. Whereas some familiar parasitic infections are responsible for much human disease and suffering, the great majority are rare or obscure forms ignored by all but the most comprehensive texts. The Parasites of Homo sapiens: An Annotated checklist of the Protozoa, Helminths and Arthropods for Which We Are Home, 2nd Edition presents a comprehensive listing of them all. Closely following the pattern of the first edition, this new edition incorporates a wealth of further information and data from the most recently published research findings. An indispensable guide for all parasitologists, it presents a comprehensive checklist of all animals naturally parasitic in or on the human body. Each parasite listed includes a complete summary of its characteristics.

The structure of each entry includes:

The scientific name of the parasite

Synonyms for scientific names

Status of reported human cases

Geographical distribution and abundance

Parasite habitat on humans

Hosts

Transmission mechanisms

Human risk factors

Indication of host-specificity status