Health & Fitness
Invasive Snails Could Be Deadly To Humans, GA Officials Say
Rat lungworms found in two invasive snail species in Georgia could sicken humans; complications include death, health officials say.
SOCIAL CIRCLE, GA — State officials are warning residents about two invasive snail species with a parasitic nematode that could lead to death if consumed by humans.
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources said a low level of rat lungworm has been detected in apple and mystery snails after wildlife officials and a Middle Georgia State University parasitology lab conducted a study of the snails statewide.
Infections from a rat lungworm, which officials said can be transmitted through raw or undercooked slugs or snails and sicken humans, could lead to eosinophilic meningitis in rare cases. Complications can include death, the DNR said.
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The state agency added the chances of becoming infected with the rat lungworm are extremely low.
"While this newest discovery is alarming, the Centers for Disease Control website notes that the parasite does not replicate in humans, and human-to-human transmission does not occur," the DNR said in a news release.
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This is the first time rat lungworms have been found in snails in Georgia. The only other time the parasites were found in the state was in rats in 2019 near the Atlanta Zoo, the DNR said.
State officials offered these preventative measures while on Georgia waters:
- Take time to thoroughly wash down boats, trailers and fishing gear after each outing on the water.
- Choose to not dump aquariums.
- Do not intentionally release non-native species into waterbodies where they did not previously occur.
Apple snails originate from South America, while mystery snails come from Southeast Asia, Japan and Russia.
Georgia is one of several states where both species live, the DNR said. Since 2023, it has been illegal to have these snails.
The DNR warned they can be harmful to vessels and other boating equipment. Additionally, apple and mystery snails can hinder access to water and may disrupt the natural ecosystem by overpowering native species.
Residents should protect their health and that of Georgia waters, the DNR said.
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