What is the genuine concern when handling an earthworm pulled from the soil?

Answer

Secondary contamination from bacteria or microscopic parasite eggs residing on its surface

The primary danger associated with handling earthworms or soil-dwelling creatures is not typically the creature itself being inherently toxic or carrying immediate diseases transmissible through intact skin. Instead, the genuine concern centers on secondary contamination. The organism is covered in soil particles, which can host various environmental bacteria, fungi, or microscopic infective stages, such as the eggs of parasites like *Toxocara*, which may have been deposited in the soil by mammals. If these contaminants are subsequently transferred to sensitive areas like the mouth, eyes, or an open wound before thorough handwashing, infection can occur, usually through ingestion or contamination rather than direct transmission from the worm's body.

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