Gurye-gun Conducts Free Parasite Testing

Easily with One Stool Sample! Testing for 11 Types of Intestinal Parasites Available

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Yuk Miseok] Gurye-gun is known as an area where residents frequently suffer from parasitic infections due to its geographical conditions located in the Seomjin River basin.

On the 5th, Gurye-gun, Jeollanam-do announced that it plans to conduct intestinal parasite tests for 11 types, including liver flukes, on 2,000 residents and volunteers around the Seomjin River.

The testing period will last about three months, during which stool samples will be collected and sent to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency. Based on the test results, those who test positive will receive treatment, education to prevent reinfection, and continuous monitoring.

Liver flukes, known as Clonorchis sinensis among parasites, parasitize the bile ducts and cause abdominal pain, cholecystitis, and cholangitis. The World Health Organization (WHO) has designated them as a Group 1 carcinogen for bile duct cancer. Bile duct cancer is considered one of the worst cancers, with a five-year survival rate of less than 20%.

The most reliable way to prevent liver fluke infection is to avoid eating raw freshwater fish, and cooking utensils such as knives and cutting boards that have come into contact with infected fish must be heated in boiling water for more than 10 seconds before use.

Free parasite testing is easily done with a single stool sample. It is recommended that those who have tested positive and received medication, their families, residents who have eaten raw freshwater fish or frequently consume alcohol, and freshwater fish handlers and their families undergo mandatory testing. Those who wish to be tested can apply at the Gurye-gun Public Health Medical Center Infectious Disease Control Team or the local health branch office or health clinic.