The Health Ministry is again discouraging consumption of the Giant African Snail.

It reminds that the Snail is a known host for the rat lungworm which may cause meningitis, which is inflammation of the membrane surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

It adds that humans may become infected by ingesting raw or inadequately cooked snails.

Infections in children tend to be of greater severity and are often fatal.

The snails can also harbour bacteria such as Salmonella, which can be the cause of food poisoning.

It adds that because of their feeding habits, some snails might feed on plants or chemicals, potentially making them harmful if consumed since these toxins are not removed by preparation or cooking.