This article originally appeared in the Guardian’s science blog.
Neglected tropical diseases affect children’s minds, not just their bodies. All the more reason to step up efforts to eradicate them.
Electron micrograph of a hookworm. Children infected with parasitic worms are likely to have impaired short-term memory. Photograph: Sebastian Kaulitzki/Alamy
Suppose I told you that your child had a one in four chance of being affected by a disease that causes lethargy, lack of motivation and impaired attention. You’d probably respond, “Is there a treatment?” » Read more: Out of Sight, Out of Mind: Hidden Cost of Neglected Tropical Diseases
