The allure of open spaces, a refuge for those seeking solace, has long been a cherished part of life's simple pleasures.

However, a recent report revealed risks beneath familiar landscapes, suggesting that even the ground we walk on may conceal unseen dangers. For nature lovers, a peaceful stroll in the park may no longer be as carefree as it seems.

The study has cast a shadow over these serene green spaces with the revelation of a hidden danger lurking in the soil⁠—a parasite that can cause blindness.

The study, which took place in Dublin, Ireland, has raised concerns for park-goers around the world. Researchers found that roundworm eggs, particularly those from the species Toxocara, are prevalent in the soil of public parks.


These parasites are not just a local issue; they are a global concern, with similar findings reported in the UK and potentially in parks worldwide.

Roundworms are commonly hosted in the digestive systems of pets and urban wildlife such as cats, dogs, and foxes. When these animals defecate, they release millions of microscopic eggs into the environment.

These eggs can then contaminate the soil, and if humans inadvertently touch contaminated soil and then their mouths or food without proper hand hygiene, they risk ingesting the eggs.

While most roundworm infections are mild and may go unnoticed, there is a rare but serious risk that the eggs can travel through the bloodstream to the eyes.

If the larvae hatch in the eye, they can cause significant damage and, if untreated, lead to blindness. This condition, known as ocular toxocariasis, can also be accompanied by breathing difficulties if the eggs hatch in the lungs.

The Dublin study, which was published in the journal PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases, collected soil samples from various areas within 12 parks. The findings were startling: park entrances and children's playgrounds were the most heavily contaminated spots.

The researchers theorised that the high concentration of dog faeces at park entrances, where dogs often relieve themselves upon arrival, contributed to the contamination.

Despite playgrounds typically being off-limits to dogs, the presence of puppies brought in by owners was identified as a likely source of contamination there.

The implications of this study are significant for Australians who enjoy their local parks. While the research focused on Dublin, the presence of roundworms in parks is a universal issue due to the widespread nature of domestic and wild animals in urban areas.

To protect yourself and your loved ones, especially young grandchildren who might accompany you to the park, it's crucial to take preventive measures:

1. Practise good hygiene: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after visiting a park, especially before eating or touching your face.
2. Supervise children: Ensure that children play in clean areas and wash their hands after playing outside.
3. Pet responsibility: If you're a pet owner, regularly deworm your pets and dispose of their faeces responsibly. Urge others to do the same.
4. Advocate for cleanliness: Support local initiatives to keep parks clean, such as providing dog waste bins and enforcing rules against dogs in playgrounds.
5. Be informed: Be mindful of the signs of roundworm infection, particularly ocular symptoms like eye pain, redness, vision changes, or loss of vision in one eye.

The study's authors suggest that further research should assess the effectiveness of anti-dog fouling measures. By implementing strategies such as clear signage, providing waste bins, and offering means to clean up after pets, we can reduce the risk of roundworm contamination in our parks.
As we continue to enjoy the great outdoors, let's not forget that our health and safety come first. By taking these simple steps, we can ensure that our trips to the park remain a source of joy⁠—not a cause for concern. Have you encountered any issues with park cleanliness in your area?