Filaria

/fɪˈlɛːriə/ noun

Definition

A parasitic nematode worm that lives in the tissues or blood of humans and animals, typically transmitted by insect vectors.

Etymology

From New Latin, using the Latin 'filum' (thread) to describe the thread-like appearance of these parasitic worms.

Kelly Says

Filaria worms can grow to be 3 feet long coiled up inside a human body—they've infected over 120 million people worldwide, making them one of the most common parasites in tropical regions.

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