December to March of the following year is the season when water chestnuts are on the market. Water chestnut, also known as horseshoe, chestnut and so on, has a famous name of "underground snow pear" and "Jiangnan ginseng". Water chestnuts have a crisp and sweet taste, and are rich in nutrients. After peeling, they can be eaten as raw fruits or vegetables. But did you know that if you eat untreated water chestnuts, you may be infected with a parasite called "ginger fluke"? Today, we will uncover the true face of this parasite, teach you scientific prevention, and enjoy delicious food with peace of mind! What is ginger fluke? Brucella sinensis, also known as ginger fluke, is a large fluke that parasitizes the small intestine of humans and pigs. The adult of ginger leaf beetle is elongated in shape, with a thick and flat body resembling sliced ginger, hence its name. The larvae (cysticerci) of ginger leaf worms often attach to the surface of aquatic plants such as water chestnuts, water chestnuts, and bamboo shoots. If these foods are eaten raw, the cysticerci will enter the human body and develop into adults, leading to diseases. What are the symptoms after infection? Mild infected individuals may have no symptoms or only mild symptoms. When there are a large number of parasites, gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, nausea and vomiting, and decreased appetite may occur; Malnutrition: Long term parasitism by parasites can seize nutrients, leading to emaciation, anemia, edema, and ascites; Serious complications: Childhood infections may lead to intellectual decline and developmental disorders, and in rare cases, intestinal obstruction may occur due to the formation of parasite clusters. Severe late stage patients may experience failure, collapse, or secondary bacterial infections in the lungs and intestines, leading to death. The relationship between water chestnut and ginger fluke. The corm of water chestnut grows in paddy fields or ponds, with many folds on the surface, making it easy to adsorb the cyst of ginger fluke. Eating water chestnuts raw or gnawing on the skin with teeth is the main route of infection. Many people mistakenly believe that 'fresh water chestnuts can be eaten raw after being peeled', but in fact, there are hidden risks! How to scientifically prevent? 1. Do not consume aquatic plants such as water chestnuts, water chestnuts, and bamboo shoots. It is recommended to cook them thoroughly before consumption, as high temperatures can effectively kill cysticercosis. If cold dishes are needed, they can be blanched in boiling water for 1-2 minutes first. 2. Proper cleaning and treatment: Use a hard bristled brush to thoroughly scrub the surface under flowing water; When peeling, avoid biting with teeth and it is recommended to use a knife to peel; Wash hands promptly after handling raw water chestnuts to avoid contaminating other foods. 3. Pay attention to hygiene habits and avoid drinking raw water, especially from ponds and rivers; Strengthen the management of human and animal feces in rural areas to prevent water pollution. What to do after infection? If there are suspected symptoms, one should promptly seek medical attention at a professional medical institution and inform the doctor of their food history. The detection of eggs in feces can confirm the diagnosis, and treatment drugs include praziquantel, which should be taken according to medical advice. Misconception 1: Can soaking in salt water or vinegar kill parasites? Truth: Saltwater and vinegar cannot effectively kill the cyst larvae of ginger worms, boiling is the correct way! Misconception 2: Only children can be infected? Truth: Infection can occur in all age groups, and children may have more obvious symptoms due to weaker immunity. Although water chestnuts are delicious, the method of consumption is very important! After thorough washing, peeling, and boiling, it can be safely consumed. (New Society)