FRESHWATER CRABS IN MINDANAO FOUND TO CARRY LUNG-FLUKE PARASITE
Freshwater crabs collected from parts of Mindanao have been found to carry a lung-fluke parasite, raising concerns among health and environment authorities. According to initial information from field researchers, the parasite was detected in crabs taken from rivers and streams that are commonly used by nearby communities. The findings are still undergoing verification, but specialists say the presence of the parasite in food sources could pose a risk if the crabs are eaten raw or undercooked. As of now, there are no confirmed details on human infections linked directly to the newly reported cases in crabs. Local governments and partner agencies are said to be monitoring the situation while awaiting more complete laboratory results.
Based on preliminary reports, the lung fluke identified in the crabs is similar to parasites previously documented in other parts of Asia, where they are known to cause respiratory illness in humans. The parasite typically uses snails and freshwater crustaceans as intermediate hosts before reaching humans or other mammals. Health experts explain that infection usually occurs through the consumption of contaminated crabs or crayfish that have not been properly cooked. In the Philippine setting, freshwater crabs are sometimes prepared in traditional dishes, making food safety a key concern. Officials stress that thorough cooking is one of the most reliable ways to kill the parasite and reduce the risk of transmission.
Researchers in Mindanao are expanding their sampling to additional rivers and tributaries to determine how widespread the parasite may be. According to initial information from the field, teams are also checking environmental conditions such as water quality and the presence of snail populations that could sustain the parasite’s life cycle. Parallel to the ecological surveys, health workers are reviewing clinical records in nearby communities for respiratory symptoms that could be consistent with lung-fluke infection. As of now, there are no confirmed details on any cluster of cases that can be directly tied to the affected waterways. Authorities emphasize that the investigation remains in its early stages and that updated advisories will be issued once more data are available.
Public health offices in the region are expected to coordinate with barangay leaders to step up information campaigns on safe food handling and proper cooking of freshwater crabs. Based on preliminary reports, posters and community briefings are being prepared to remind residents to avoid
