In 2010, 19-year-old Sam Ballard from Sydney ate a slug on a dare.
The slug carried a parasite called *rat lungworm*, which led to severe complications.
Initially, Sam experienced weakness and pain in his legs, eventually contracting meningitis and falling into a coma for 420 days. After waking, he was paralyzed and required 24-hour care. Tragically, Sam passed away in 2018 at age 29.
The story highlights the dangers of slugs, which can carry harmful parasites. To avoid infection, never eat or lick slugs, wash your hands thoroughly after handling them, and inspect fruits and vegetables for signs of contamination.
