What parasite can cause recurrent fever?

May 16, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
Targeted parasitic infections may cause recurrent fever, including common tropical and subtropical parasitic diseases such as malaria, hookworm disease, and filariasis. If a patient has a history of travel or residence in tropical or subtropical regions, or prior exposure to parasitic infections, and develops symptoms such as recurrent fever, they should seek medical attention promptly for appropriate evaluation and treatment.

In general, specific parasitic infections may cause recurrent fever, including malaria, hookworm disease, and filariasis—parasitic diseases commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions. These diseases are closely related to the patient's living environment and sanitary conditions. The details are as follows:

1. Malaria

Patients typically experience symptoms such as chills, high fever, headache, and muscle pain, which usually recur every few hours or days.

2. Hookworm Disease

This is a parasitic infection acquired through direct skin contact. Patients may develop persistent fever, anemia, fatigue, diarrhea, and other symptoms.

3. Filariasis

Transmitted through mosquito bites, this parasitic infection may cause symptoms such as fever, swollen lymph nodes, and skin rashes.

Besides the above, schistosomiasis may also present with recurrent fever. If a patient has traveled to or lived in tropical or subtropical areas, or has had potential exposure to parasites, and experiences recurrent fever or similar symptoms, they should seek medical attention promptly for appropriate testing and treatment.