More than 1,000 giant snails attacked the US: they are dangerous to human health

In Florida, US, experts captured more than 1,000 giant African land snails from Pasco County. How

noted Nikki Fried, Commissioner for AgricultureFlorida Farm, at a press conference, the invasive species is “one of the most dangerous snails in the world.” They were first discovered in the New Port Richey area in late June. “Let me assure you: we will destroy these snails,” the official added.

Individuals can grow up to 20 cm in length and consume hundreds of plant species. Snails also pose a health threat to anyone who comes into contact with them.

According to officials, they have already been foundat 29 sites. About 900 individuals were collected alive, and almost 150 were collected dead. Officials have established a "quarantine" zone and warn that removing the giant snails or any plants, soil, compost and yard waste from the zone without the consent of the agriculture department is strictly prohibited.

Crews place snail bait on sites.near the observation site - mainly a pesticide for catching and destroying snails. The largest snail found so far in Pasco was about 10 cm long. One giant African land snail can lay more than 2,500 eggs a year, according to the state.

In addition to eating plants, individuals can chew gypsumor plaster. This gives them calcium, which strengthens their shells. What worries officials and scientists most is that the snails may carry rat lungworm, which is known to cause meningitis. So far, none of the snails caught have been found to have it, Greg Hodges, deputy director of the state Department of Agriculture's Division of Plant Sciences, said at a news conference.

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