Title : Triple threat: Severe COVID-19-strongyloidiasis-taeniasis co-infection: A case report
Abstract:
Strongyloidiasis is caused by a soil-transmitted threadworm that is endemic worldwide and is more prevalent in humid climates. Taeniasis on the other hand, is an intestinal infection with tapeworms which is usually acquired by ingestion of parasite’s larval cysts in undercooked or infected meat. Up to the present, the world is still being threatened by COVID-19 infection. In here, we describe a case of co-infection of the cestode Taenia and Strongyloides in patient who is infected with SARS-CoV-2. The patient was initially managed as severe COVID-19, given supplemental oxygen, Remdesivir and Dexamethasone. On 2nd hospital day, patient passed out proglottids and microscopy revealed Taenia saginata and rhabditiform larvae of Strongyloides stercolaris. He was given Ivermectin and Praziquantel and surveillance fecalysis post treatment revealed successful eradication of the said parasites. Patient was discharged improved. A study done in Africa showed that immunomodulation caused by helminth infection may help reduce the severity of COVID-19 infection. This case report described a 58-year old male who was infected with SARS-CoV-2 and at the same time, with Taenia saginata and Strongyloides stercolaris. Neglected tropical diseases like strongyloidiasis and taeniasis should also be considered among COVID-19 patients. Education emphasizing hygiene, proper food handling and preparation minimizes the risk acquiring such infections.
