What Are Worm Infections & How Do They Spread?
Worm infections occur when parasitic worms enter the digestive system, usually through contaminated food, water, or surfaces. These infections are common in children but can affect people of all ages.
Common Types of Intestinal Worms:
- Pinworms (Threadworms): Tiny white worms that cause itching around the anus.
- Roundworms: Can grow in the intestines, causing digestive issues.
- Tapeworms: Contracted from undercooked meat or contaminated water.
- Hookworms: Enter the body through the skin, often from walking barefoot on infected soil.
How Worms Are Transmitted:
- Eating contaminated food or drinking untreated water.
- Poor hygiene, such as not washing hands properly.
- Close contact with infected individuals.
- Walking barefoot on contaminated soil.
Who Needs Treatment for Worm Infections?
Treatment is essential for those who:
- Experience persistent anal itching (especially at night).
- Notice worms or eggs in their stool.
- Suffer from abdominal pain, bloating, or nausea.
- Have unexplained weight loss or fatigue.
- Live in a household where others have been infected.
Best Ways to Treat Worm Infections
Worm infections are easily treatable with medications, hygiene improvements, and preventive strategies.
Medications for Worm Infections:
- Anti-worm treatments: Kill and eliminate worms from the body (Mebendazol, Molevac, Vermox).
- Single-dose or multi-dose regimens: Depending on the type of worm.
- Household treatment: Everyone in close contact with an infected person may need treatment to prevent reinfection.
Hygiene Practices & Prevention:
- Wash hands thoroughly before eating and after using the toilet.
- Trim fingernails short to prevent eggs from spreading.
- Wash bedding and underwear regularly at high temperatures.
- Cook meat properly to avoid tapeworm infections.
- Keep children’s hands clean and discourage nail-biting.
