Overview
Intestinal worm infections, such as threadworm (pinworm), roundworm and hookworm, are common, especially in children. They spread through unwashed hands, contaminated food and water, and soil. They are easy to treat, and good hygiene stops them coming back.
Causes
- Swallowing worm eggs from unwashed hands, food or water
- Walking barefoot on contaminated soil (hookworm)
- Close contact in families and schools (threadworm)
Risk factors
- Young children
- Poor sanitation and unsafe water
- Not washing hands after the toilet
- Eating unwashed raw fruit and vegetables
Symptoms
- Itching around the bottom, worse at night (threadworm)
- Tummy pain and poor appetite
- Disturbed sleep and irritability in children
- Weight loss or tiredness, and sometimes anaemia
Diagnosis
Threadworms can sometimes be seen around the bottom at night; a sticky tape test or stool test can confirm worm infections.
Management
- Anti-worm medicines such as mebendazole or albendazole, as advised
- Treating the whole family at the same time for threadworm
- Washing hands, keeping nails short, and washing bedding and towels
- Clean water and well-washed food
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if symptoms do not go away after treatment, for children under 2, during pregnancy, or if there is weight loss or blood in the stool.
This information is for general awareness and does not replace advice from your doctor. Prescription medicines are supplied only against a valid prescription. Questions? Ask our pharmacist on WhatsApp.