human
Why is it called Guinea worm disease?
assistant
The disease is named after the parasitic worm that causes it. The parasite is called a guinea worm because it was first discovered in Guinea, West Africa. The disease is caused by a parasite called Dracunculus medinensis. The parasite is transmitted to humans by drinking water that contains the larvae of the worm. The larvae then develop into adult worms in the human body. The adult worms live in the blood vessels of the body and cause intense pain. The disease is fatal if left untreated.