Pinworms - The #1 Visible Parasite

Pinworms are the "head lice" of the internal parasite world. They are very contageous and easily reinfect their host. Pinworms come out at night to lay their eggs on the anus - these eggs stick onto underclothing and the bedding. They can also become airborne and are able to live without a host for up to two days.

Pinworms cause a very itchy anus - young children scratch - then touch other objects (toys, food, other children, etc.) - these objects are then loaded with pinworm eggs. Pinworms are spread via the anus-oral route and auto-re-infection is easily achieved - children scratch and then put their hands in their mouths - which re-infects them. All of these things are why pinworms can be so hard to get rid of!

When cleansing pinworms it is important to change and wash the bedding and underclothing daily with hot water. This will help remove the eggs. Also - try and have the child use one bathroom in the house and disinfect it daily. Proper handwashing is very important while cleansing pinworms - first thing in the morning and after every trip to the restroom. This will cut down on re-infection. It is hard for a child not to scratch because of the severe itching - but try to talk to them about the benefits of not scratching :) Tweet