Amoebiasis doesn't directly "move" in the sense of migrating from person to person; rather, it's Entamoeba histolytica, the parasite causing amoebiasis, that is transmitted and subsequently infects a new host. This transmission occurs primarily through the fecal-oral route.
Fecal-Oral Transmission: The Key to Amoebiasis Spread
The primary mode of transmission is through the ingestion of Entamoeba histolytica cysts found in:
- Contaminated Food and Water: Unclean water sources or food handled with contaminated hands are common sources.
- Dirty Hands: Insufficient handwashing after using the toilet or handling potentially contaminated objects.
- Soiled Objects: Surfaces or objects contaminated with feces containing the cysts.
The Role of Cysts
Entamoeba histolytica exists in two forms:
- Trophozoites: The active, disease-causing form.
- Cysts: The dormant, infectious form that can survive outside the body.
Cysts are the infectious form, as they are resistant to environmental conditions and can survive outside the human body for extended periods. When ingested, they pass through the stomach and excyst in the small intestine, releasing trophozoites.
Vectors of Transmission
While the primary route is fecal-oral, other factors can contribute to the spread:
- Flies and Cockroaches: These insects can act as mechanical carriers, transporting cysts from feces to food.
- Direct Contact: Rarely, direct contact with infected feces can also lead to transmission, particularly in settings with poor hygiene.
Summary of Amoebiasis Transmission
In short, amoebiasis "moves" by the following mechanism:
- Cysts are excreted in the feces of an infected individual.
- These cysts contaminate food, water, or surfaces.
- A new host ingests the contaminated material.
- The cysts transform into trophozoites in the host's intestine, leading to infection.
