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Parasitic Animals
Helminths, a type of roundworm, are a common parasite in tropical waters. Streams in temperate climates harbor parasites like leeches and blood flukes. These types of parasites may burrow into human skin and lay eggs, causing severe illness or even death.
Parasitic Protists
Protists are single-celled organisms. Most protists need water to live, and stream ecosystems offer just the right environment. Drinking fresh water from streams without boiling it first can lead to infection. In addition, swimming in infested waters may lead to sickness such as amoebic dysentery. Malaria is also caused by a parasitic protist.
Parasitic Bacteria
Feces from animals in a stream ecosystem contribute parasitic bacteria to the water. Swallowing this water could cause gastrointestinal distress. Seek medical attention immediately for strong antibiotics. Keep hydrated with clean water to reduce the effects.