Recurring parasitic infections have been linked with the autoimmune diseases chronic fatigue syndrome, Fibromyalgia and arthritis. Protozoa, arthropods, and worms that invade the body are classified as parasitic. When these invade the body termed as the host bodily processes are interrupted. Not only does the body have to rid itself from the bombardment of protozoa, but also it will have to combat the bacteria that accompany them. Borrelia burgdferi is the bacteria that cause Lyme’s disease that is passed along to the human from the bite of a tick. Other arthropods that invade the human body are mites, fleas, and lice.The worms: pin, round, tape, hook, Guinea, and filarial are the most common ones that travelers will get when visiting underdeveloped countries. The most frequent parasites in humans are acquired through poor hygiene and contaminated food and water. These are the protozoa called Giardia lamblia, Crytosporidum, Enteramoeba histolytica, and Blastocystis hominis. It is a common belief that parasitic infections only take place in underdeveloped countries, but 17% of Americans have a parasitic infection and my not realize it as some infections do not reveal obvious symptoms.The same symptoms found in causes of chronic fatigue and Fibromyalgia can be found in an individual with a parasitic infection. Constipation, fatigue, confusion, lethargy, muscle weakness, painful joints, and allergies are present in both instances. Other symptoms of a parasitic infection are indigestion, hives, bloating, flatulence, abdominal cramping, fever and vomiting.Humans acquire parasitic infections when traveling to a foreign country. Contaminated food or under prepared food harbors a high percentage of parasites. Contaminated water is another source of parasites. Unprotected sexual intercourse and cross contamination from pets are other sources of parasites that will cause infection. Certain parasites are air born and can be inhaled into the respiratory track.Once a parasite has attached itself to a host it may grow as long as 15 feet. When the body is bombarded by a parasitic infection the immune system is depleted. This depleted state aggravates arthritis, Fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue.In order to avoid a parasitic infection the individual should avoid raw or under prepared foods, maintain a hygienic area when cooking. Do not place raw meat on a cutting board that is used to dice vegetables. Care should be taken around pets and they should be de wormed often.Introduce anti parasitic foods such as garlic, onions, figs, cabbage, and ground almonds all in their raw form. These same foods bolster autoimmune system diseases such as chronic fatigue, arthritis, and Fibromyalgia.If evidence of a parasitic infection is established avoid sugar and refined carbohydrates. These will prevent the gut from removing toxins and instead of assisting the body in ridding itself of the parasite it will encourage its growth.The general guidelines for avoiding a parasitic infection are to wash all fresh fruits and vegetables. Drink only purified water and avoid drinking any water from a river or stream. Practice clean pet hygiene. If raw meats are consumed and annual parasitic cleansing is encouraged.