Intestinal worms in children are a common and highly treatable medical condition. The most frequent cause of concern in North America and Europe is the pinworm, a tiny parasite that primarily inhabits the human digestive tract. Understanding the signs of infection and following proper treatment and hygiene protocols can effectively resolve the issue. This guide looks at identifying these parasites, the standard medical approach to deworming, and the necessary steps to prevent their spread and recurrence.
Recognizing Common Intestinal Worms in Children
Intestinal worm infections in children are caused by Enterobius vermicularis, commonly known as pinworms or threadworms. These are small, white, thread-like parasites. Infection occurs when a child accidentally ingests the microscopic eggs, which then hatch in the small intestine and mature in the colon.
The most noticeable symptom is often intense itching around the anus, especially at night. This occurs because the female pinworm migrates out of the intestine while the child sleeps to lay thousands of eggs on the surrounding skin. The discomfort and itching can lead to restless sleep, irritability, and general fatigue in the child.
The child may experience pain or a rash due to persistent scratching, which can also lead to secondary bacterial skin infections. In girls, the worms may migrate to the vaginal area, causing irritation and itching there as well. Diagnosis is confirmed through a “tape test,” where a piece of clear adhesive tape is pressed against the perianal skin first thing in the morning to collect any eggs for microscopic examination.
The Medical Approach to Deworming
Treatment for pinworm infection is straightforward and involves the use of anthelmintic medications, which are designed to paralyze or kill the parasites. These anti-worm medications are available either by prescription or, in the case of pyrantel pamoate, as an over-the-counter option in some regions. Other common prescription options include mebendazole and albendazole.
These medications work by interfering with the worm’s ability to absorb glucose or by paralyzing the worm, causing it to lose its grip on the intestinal wall and be passed out of the body. For example, a standard dose of mebendazole is 100 milligrams taken once.
A single dose of medication kills the adult worms but does not eliminate the eggs, which can survive outside the body for up to three weeks. Therefore, the standard treatment protocol involves a second dose of the same medication, typically administered two weeks after the first dose. This second treatment is necessary to kill any newly hatched larvae that developed from the eggs not destroyed by the initial dose. Some children may experience mild, temporary side effects, such as minor stomach upset or nausea, following the dose.
Preventing Reinfection and Household Spread
Eliminating a pinworm infection requires diligent hygiene and cleaning, as reinfection is common due to the parasite’s life cycle. The microscopic eggs are highly contagious and can easily spread from the anal area to the hands, surfaces, and clothing. Treating the entire household simultaneously is often recommended by medical providers, even if other family members show no symptoms, to break the cycle of transmission.
Personal hygiene is the primary defense against reinfection.
Hygiene and Cleaning Protocols
- Wash hands thoroughly using soap and warm water after using the toilet, before all meals, and immediately upon waking up in the morning.
- Keep fingernails trimmed short to prevent eggs from collecting beneath the nail beds during scratching.
- Ensure the child takes a shower every morning rather than a tub bath, as bathing water can become contaminated with eggs.
- Change all bedding, towels, and sleepwear daily for several days after treatment.
- Wash linens in hot water, at least 130°F, followed by a hot drying cycle.
- Handle laundry carefully, as eggs can spread through the air when contaminated linens are shaken.