What is Taenia solium?

Taenia solium, commonly known as the pork tapeworm, is a parasitic flatworm that primarily infects humans through the consumption of undercooked or contaminated pork containing its larvae. Once ingested, it can grow into an adult tapeworm in the intestines, leading to taeniasis, which may cause abdominal discomfort and other gastrointestinal issues. Additionally, if the eggs are ingested, they can cause cysticercosis, a serious condition where larvae invade body tissues, including the brain. Effective prevention includes proper cooking of pork and practicing good hygiene.