Do crayfish have parasites?

May 24, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Yongchao
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, crayfish may carry parasites. Parasites found in crayfish can include various types such as lung flukes, trematodes, and tapeworms, among which lung flukes are the most common. The larvae of lung flukes typically reside in the digestive system of crayfish. If crayfish live in a polluted environment, they are more likely to be infected by these parasites.

Generally speaking, crayfish may carry parasites. The detailed analysis is as follows:

Parasites found in crayfish may include various types such as paragonimus, flukes, and tapeworms, with paragonimus being the most common. The larvae of paragonimus typically reside in the digestive system of crayfish. If crayfish live in polluted environments, they are more likely to be infected by these parasites. When humans consume undercooked or raw crayfish, they may become infected with these parasites. After infection, individuals may experience a variety of symptoms, such as coughing, sputum production, and chest tightness. When paragonimus invades the digestive system, it can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.

Therefore, it is recommended to choose crayfish from reputable sources where the water quality is clean and the breeding conditions are well-managed, thus reducing the risk of parasite infection. When cooking, ensure that the crayfish are thoroughly cooked for at least 10 minutes, reaching an internal temperature above 70°C, to effectively kill any potential parasites and bacteria, ensuring food safety and health.

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