Raccoon feces pose significant health risks via parasitic roundworms

Raccoon feces pose significant health risks to humans and pets, primarily through the transmission of Baylisascaris procyonis, a parasitic roundworm. Raccoons often use communal areas known as latrines—located in attics, sheds, or playgrounds—to defecate, which concentrates pathogens and increases exposure risks.

Infected raccoons shed millions of highly resistant microscopic eggs that can survive in the environment for years. If humans, dogs, cats, or other animals ingest or inhale these eggs, the larvae can hatch and migrate through the body, causing visceral larva migrans. This condition can lead to organ and tissue damage, neurological issues, or blindness.