Five Florida counties have tested positive for rat lungworm, a parasite that can cause potentially deadly meningitis in humans and animals, according to researchers at the University of Florida.

The UF College of Veterinary Medicine and the Florida Museum of Natural History found instances of rat lungworm in Alachua, Leon, St. Johns, Orange and Hillsborough counties. The five counties tested positive after the parasite was discovered in various rats and snails, according to the study. 18 Florida counties were surveyed in total for the study.

Snails become infected with rat lungworm by consuming the feces of infected rats, the study said. Rats can also contract the parasite by ingesting infected snails.

The parasite poses a risk to humans who ingest snails, frogs or crustaceans infected with the parasite.

The fatality rate is low, but severe infections can lead to meningitis, which can become caught in the brain and cause coma or death, according to a statement.

Symptoms of infection include nausea, vomiting, stiff neck and paralysis of the face and limbs. In children, common symptoms include nausea, vomiting and fever.

“The parasite is here in Florida and is something that needs to be taken seriously,” said Stockdale Walden, an assistant professor in the UF department of infectious diseases and pathology . “The reality is that it is probably in more counties than we found it in, and it is also probably more prevalent in the southeastern U.S. than we think.

More than 2,800 cases of human rat lungworm infection have been documented since the parasite was first discovered. When it comes to protecting yourself against potential infection, Walden has a simple piece of advice: Wash produce.

"“Some snails are very small and can easily hide in lettuce leaves. Teach children not to eat snails, and if they handle snails, make sure they wash their hands," she said.

"Be aware of the potential risks associated with eating snails and also raw or undercooked frogs and crustaceans.”