WHAT ARE THEY?The pinworm (Enterobius vermicularis) is a small white to yellowish-white worm (approximately 5-10 mm in size) that can live in the human intestines. The pinworm belongs to the roundworm family and is an intestinal parasite. It is common, and many children become infected, especially when they first start daycare or school. Older adults can also be infected. The medical name for the condition is enterobiasis or oxyuris.
The pinworms emerge primarily at night, crawling out of the anus to lay eggs. This can cause itching. The eggs are spread via hands and various objects, and can then infect other children or people through the mouth. Transmission occurs only from person to person; they cannot survive in pets.
Pinworms live in the lower part of the large intestine and the appendix. They live for about eight weeks and lay their eggs on the skin around the anus. Outside the body, the eggs can survive for a long time (10-14 days), allowing them to infect other people via toys, furniture, clothing, bedding, utensils, or hands.
Pinworms mainly emerge at night to lay eggs. They then cause itching around the anus and labia. They can also be found in feces. In severe infections, they also occur in the vagina, where they cannot reproduce. The worms are harmless and cause only itching and some vague intestinal and abdominal discomfort. However, the itching can keep some people awake. Scratching can cause inflammation and broken skin.
HOW ARE PARAWITS TREATED?Treatment consists of taking one 100 mg tablet of mebendazole, which is an antiparasitic agent. After two weeks, you should take another tablet. This medication is available over the counter at pharmacies or drugstores.
The 100 mg dosage applies to both adults and children. Use in children under two years of age is not recommended.
Because several people in a family can be infected, all family members should be treated, preferably at the same time.
In addition, hygiene measures should be taken to prevent re-infection:
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Wash your hands well everyone, keep your nails short. |
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Wash all bedding and clothes at 60°C. Steam or air those that cannot be washed. |
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Clean everything thoroughly, air the bedding, vacuum daily. |
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Dress small children in tight underwear or closed pajamas to prevent re-infection by scratching their hands. |
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