Final answer:
Foodborne illnesses from parasites are typically transmitted through fecal-oral transmission, vector transmission, and directly from infected persons or contaminated food items. Prevention involves proper cooking and hygiene practices.
Step-by-step explanation:
Foodborne illnesses caused by parasites can be transmitted through three primary methods:
- Fecal-oral transmission: This occurs when food or water is contaminated with fecal matter containing parasitic eggs or larvae. Consuming these contaminated substances can lead to the development of adult worms in the human host. Pathogens such as cholera and gastroenteritis, as well as helminth infections like pork tapeworm (Taenia solium), spread through this route.
- Vector transmission: Some parasites are transmitted by vector organisms, like mosquitoes or ticks, which carry the pathogens from infected hosts to new hosts. For example, the mosquito can spread diseases by biting humans, and Theileria microti carried by ticks can cause recurring fevers.
- Directly from infected persons or through consuming contaminated food like undercooked meat, fresh fruits, and vegetables.
Preventative measures include proper cooking of foods, avoiding contaminated water, hand hygiene, and ensuring infected individuals don't handle food.