The reservoir host for Balantidium coli infection is which animal?

Prepare for your Manor Preboards Module 6 Test with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question includes hints and explanations.

Multiple Choice

The reservoir host for Balantidium coli infection is which animal?

Explanation:
Balantidium coli relies on pigs as the natural source where the parasite completes its life cycle. Pigs harbor the organism in their large intestine and shed cysts in their feces, which can contaminate water or food. Humans become infected by ingesting these cysts through the fecal-oral route, especially in settings with poor sanitation or close contact with pigs. That makes pigs the reservoir host, while humans are typically accidental hosts. Dogs, cats, and cattle are not the usual sources that maintain transmission of Balantidium coli.

Balantidium coli relies on pigs as the natural source where the parasite completes its life cycle. Pigs harbor the organism in their large intestine and shed cysts in their feces, which can contaminate water or food. Humans become infected by ingesting these cysts through the fecal-oral route, especially in settings with poor sanitation or close contact with pigs. That makes pigs the reservoir host, while humans are typically accidental hosts. Dogs, cats, and cattle are not the usual sources that maintain transmission of Balantidium coli.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy