In a follow-up to an interview on the dwarf tapeworm, Hymenolepsis nana last week, this week we look a related cestode, the rat tapeworm.

Hymenolepis diminuta is a tapeworm that occurs throughout the world. Its principal definitive hosts are rodents. Nevertheless, in rare instances, it can infect humans, typically by accidental ingestion of infected arthropods, often grain beetles.

I was joined by parasitologist and author of the book, Parasites: Tales of Humanity's Most Unwelcome Guests, Rosemary Drisdelle.