How does Fasciolopsis buski infect humans and swine?

Humans and swine become infected with the trematode Fasciolopsis buski through the ingestion of metacercariae, which are encysted late-stage larvae found on aquatic plants.1

Once these plants are consumed, the metacercariae emerge from their cysts within the host. They then use ventral suckers to attach themselves to the tissues of the small intestine, where they develop into adult flukes over approximately three months. In regions such as India, China, and other parts of East Asia, this infection is typically contracted by eating uncooked aquatic vegetation.1

To prevent this, it is essential to immerse aquatic foods in boiling water before consumption.1