Worms: Pinworm

Description
There are many worms that can infest children. Most, however, need to live for a period in water, soil or animals before they become infectious to humans. In Australia, with its temperate, dry climate and adequate town sewerage facilities, very few worms are transmitted. In child care centres, the most common worm is the pinworm (also called Enterobius vermicularis). Symptoms of pinworm infection include itchy bottom, irritability and behavioural changes. Sometimes a thin, adult pinworm, about 1 cm long, is found on freshly passed faeces. Pinworms are spread when the person scratches or touches the anal area (where the pinworm lays its eggs) and then puts their hands to their mouth. Occasionally eggs on infected clothing may be breathed in and then enter the gut (where the adult pinworm lives). Pinworms do not infect dogs and cats so domestic pets are not a source of infection.


Incubation Period
Approximately one month after eggs enter the gut, the female pinworm emerges to deposit her eggs.


Infectious Period
Pinworms can spread as long as worms live in the gut. Infection will continue until the person is treated. Immunity does not occur. Both adults and children are susceptible.


Controlling the Spread of Infection
Encourage parents to seek medical treatment for infected children. The child will be free of pinworm infection within a day if the child receives treatment and clothes and bed linen are washed in hot water. Do not exclude a child with pinworm from the centre. Make sure that good handwashing and cleaning procedures are being followed in the centre and at home.


Treatment
Treatment of pinworm is simple, safe and effective. The family doctor may wish to confirm the infection with a simple laboratory test. In most cases, though, the doctor will prescribe treatment on symptoms alone. A single-dose therapy is given to the child and each family member. This is repeated after two weeks. Treatment of other children at the centre is not necessary.


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Disclaimer
The information contained in this website is intended as a guide only. Wollongong Medical Centre is not liable for any problems that may arise from incorrectly or otherwise applying information found in this website.


Further General Information

The following web site has information on infectious diseases: www.health.nsw.gov.au/infect/ or contact the Division of Population and Planning on 4255-2200.

For information on a large range of medical conditions and problems visit www.mayoclinic.com