Do Not Touch the Giant African Land Snail.
The Giant African Land Snail (Lissachatina fulica) was found in the Republic district this week and was confirmed by the Department of Public Health (PG). It is the first time this snail’s presence has been officially confirmed on Bonaire.
The Giant African Land Snail, originally from West Africa, has been found for years in the Caribbean region, such as on the neighboring island of Curaçao. These snails may have entered Bonaire in various ways, for example, with a shipment of plants or potting soil.
The snail may carry a parasite that makes people sick.
The Department of Public Health advises not to touch or pick up this snail with bare hands. By touching the snail, the parasite, if present, can be carried from the hand to the mouth and make someone sick. In case of contact with this snail, washing your hands immediately with soap and water is important.
In nature, bacteria, viruses and parasites can be transmitted via animals and plants to humans. This can also be done through food. That is why it is always important to wash your hands well before preparing food, rinse fruit and vegetables well, cook or fry meat sufficiently and not touch wild animals, including snails with bare hands.
The situation is monitored by various departments of the Public Entity Bonaire (OLB). If there is more information about this snail on Bonaire, it will be announced.
(Source: OLB)
