Transmammary Passage of Strongyloides Sp. Larvae in the Human Host *

Abstract

The prevalence of infection with Strongyloides fuelleborni and hookworms (Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus), and the possible transmammary passage of these parasites, was studied in the people of a village in Bulapé, Zaire, Africa. Stool examinations revealed that 34% of 76 infants under 200 days of age were infected with S. fuelleborni and 8% were infected with hookworms. Infection rates in the general population were 44% for S. fuelleborni and 90% for hookworms. The examination of milk from nursing mothers revealed the presence of Strongyloides larvae in one case. The finding suggests that S. fuelleborni may be transmitted via the milk in humans.