Two human cases of rare raccoon roundworm reported in Los Angeles

Los Angeles County Department of Public Health officials on Monday said that they are currently investigating the discovery of two humans cases of a rare infection called "raccoon roundworm."

While no information about either of the patients was provided, officials say that both were in the South Bay area. 

Raccoon roundworm, known as Bylisascaris procyonis, is an intestinal parasitic infection that can affect the human spinal cord, brain and eyes, officials said. 

"While Baylisascaris is rare in people and the risk to the general public is low at this time, it is concerning because a large number of raccoons live near people, and the infeection rate in raccoons is likely high," department officials said in a statement. 

They say that the confirmed cases are very rare, but an important reminder to people to take precautions in order to prevent further spread of zoonotic diseases, which transfer from animals to humans. 

The infection cannot be passed from human to human, however.

People can contract the infection by consuming dirt, soil, water or another material that is contaminated with infected feces from a raccoon. 

"Our health is closely linked to the health of animals around us," said LA County Health Officer Dr. Muntu Davis. "Simple precautions, like washing your hands regularly, avoiding direct contact with wild animals and their waste, keeping pets healthy, and preventing wildlife from sheltering or living in or next to our homes or properties can help keep our neighborhoods and families safe and healthy."

Both young children and developmentally disabled people can be at higher risk of the illness since they are more likely to put contaminated fingers in their mouths, officials said.