Roundworm infection is a parasitic disease caused by a specific type of roundworm that resides in the body and can lead to various symptoms.

What causes roundworm infection in a child?

Although roundworm infection is common globally, it is rare in the U.S. These worms’ eggs are present in contaminated soil and can enter the body through ingestion, often spreading through infected feces.

Roundworms have a lifespan of up to 2 years in the small intestine and reproduce rapidly, with female worms laying thousands of eggs daily. These eggs are excreted from the body through bowel movements.

If a child swallows a roundworm egg, it matures into a larva in the intestine, travels to the lungs through the bloodstream, and returns to the intestine to develop into an adult worm.

Which children are at risk for roundworm infection?

Roundworms are more prevalent in warm, tropical regions with inadequate sanitation and hygiene practices. Children are particularly vulnerable if adopted from developing countries or exposed to contaminated soil or unwashed fruits and vegetables.

What are the symptoms of roundworm infection in a child?

Symptoms of roundworm infection can vary in children, with younger ones more likely to display signs due to their narrower intestines. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss.

Pinworm infections are common in children, and early identification and prevention are crucial. Find out more in the detailed article below.

Pinworm infections are usually detected by observing the presence of small, white worms in the child’s stool or around the anal area, especially at night. The child may also experience itching or discomfort in the anal area.

It is important to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment if pinworm infection is suspected. Good hygiene practices such as washing hands frequently, keeping nails short, and washing bedding and clothing regularly can help prevent the spread of pinworm infections.

1. What are pinworms?

Pinworms are small white worms that inhabit the intestines, typically found in school-aged children. They can cause discomfort and itching, particularly around the anus or at night.

Pinworm infections are very common and easily spread from person to person, especially in close quarters such as schools or daycare centers. The main symptom of pinworm infestation is itching around the anus, which can be worse at night. In some cases, pinworms may also be visible in the stool or around the anal area.

Pinworm infections are usually treated with medication to kill the worms and prevent re-infestation. Good hygiene practices, such as washing hands regularly and keeping nails short, can also help prevent the spread of pinworms.

2. How to Identify Pinworm Infections in Children

Children with pinworm infections may experience anal itching, disrupted sleep, and skin irritation. To confirm an infection, a doctor can collect eggs from the anus for testing.

Other signs that a child may have a pinworm infection include irritability, loss of appetite, and weight loss. It is important to consult a healthcare provider if you suspect your child may have a pinworm infection.

Preventative measures to reduce the risk of pinworm infections include practicing good hand hygiene, keeping fingernails clean, washing bedding regularly, and avoiding sharing personal items like towels or clothing.

3. How Do Children Contract Pinworms?

Pinworm eggs can survive on surfaces for up to two weeks and can be ingested by children touching contaminated objects and then putting their fingers in their mouths. Treatment options include medication.

4. How to Treat Pinworm Infections

While pinworm infections may resolve without treatment, medications are available to eliminate the worms. Hygiene practices such as washing hands regularly, keeping fingernails short, and washing bedding and underwear frequently are important to prevent the spread of pinworms. It is also recommended to treat all family members, even if they do not show symptoms, to prevent transmission and reinfection.

5. How to Prevent Pinworm Infections

To reduce the risk of pinworm infection, implement preventive measures such as frequent handwashing, bathing, changing of undergarments, and cleaning and disinfecting personal and household items. Special attention and care are needed for children aged between 6 months and 3 years.

Threadworms (pinworms) are prevalent in children and can be managed without consulting a doctor.

Symptoms of threadworms

Threadworms may be visible in the stool or around the anus, resembling white threads, and can cause intense itching, irritability, or bedwetting.

When to get medical advice

Advice and treatment for threadworm infections can be obtained directly from a pharmacy, with the option to consult a doctor if necessary.

Treatment for threadworms

Medications can eliminate threadworms, although they may not be effective against the eggs. Proper hygiene practices are essential to prevent recurring infections.

Things you can do

• Thoroughly wash hands and keep nails short to prevent egg retention.
• Shower daily, rinse toothbrushes, and launder items in hot water.
• Avoid habits like nail-biting, thumb-sucking, and sharing personal belongings.
• Change and wash underwear, bedding, and pajamas daily to prevent re-infection.
• Encourage proper handwashing and hygiene practices in children to reduce the spread of threadworms.

Treatment from a pharmacist

Mebendazole is the primary treatment for threadworm infection, available over the counter at pharmacies in the form of chewable tablets or liquid, or via prescription from a doctor. Treat all household members over 2 years old, even if asymptomatic. Inform the pharmacist if treatment is required for a child under 2, or for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, as the approach may differ. If unable to take medication, hygiene methods can suffice for treating threadworms. Young children are most commonly affected by threadworms due to poor hand hygiene and toy sharing, necessitating treatment for all household members simultaneously. Threadworms spread from person to person, residing in the intestines and depositing eggs around the anus. Scratching and inadequate handwashing can lead to egg transmission and reinfection. Symptoms of threadworms include anal itching, visible worms in feces or on toilet paper, typically appearing as small white worms. Pharmacy medications and proper hygiene practices are key in treating and eradicating threadworm infections, necessitating treatment for all household members at once. Good hygiene habits, such as laundering clothes and bedding, refraining from sharing personal items, and regular vacuuming, can help prevent threadworm spread. Seek medical advice for children under two years old, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals with threadworms, or if concerned about a child’s condition. Threadworms, tiny parasites common in children, can cause genital itching. For more information, visit zero.govt.nz or contact Healthline for medical guidance. In case of emergency, call 111. Encourage thorough hygiene to prevent the spread of threadworms, and consider medication if necessary. If symptoms persist, seek medical attention for further assessment and treatment.