What are the telltale signs of a pinworm infection. How do pinworms spread and affect the human body. What are the most effective treatments for eliminating pinworms. How can you prevent pinworm reinfection through proper hygiene practices.

Understanding Pinworms: The Microscopic Menace

Pinworms, scientifically known as Enterobius vermicularis, are tiny parasitic worms that primarily inhabit the human intestinal tract. These thread-like creatures, also referred to as threadworms, have earned the dubious distinction of being the most prevalent worm infection in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Are pinworms visible to the naked eye? Indeed, they are. Adult female pinworms measure 8-13 millimeters in length, while males are considerably smaller at 2-5 millimeters. Their whitish coloration and thread-like appearance make them discernible, albeit barely, without magnification. These parasites have a relatively short lifespan of 2-3 weeks, during which they can wreak havoc on their human hosts.

The Pinworm Life Cycle: From Egg to Adult

Understanding the pinworm life cycle is crucial for effective prevention and treatment. The cycle begins when a human ingests pinworm eggs, typically through contaminated food, water, or by touching surfaces harboring the eggs and then touching the mouth. Once inside the body, the eggs hatch in the small intestine, and the larvae migrate to the large intestine. Here, they mature into adult worms, with females venturing out to lay eggs around the anus, typically at night.

Can pinworms infect other animals? Interestingly, human pinworms are species-specific, meaning they cannot infect or survive in any other animals. This exclusivity to human hosts makes pinworm infections a uniquely human problem.

Recognizing Pinworm Symptoms: Beyond the Itch

While some individuals may harbor pinworms without any noticeable symptoms, others experience a range of uncomfortable effects. The hallmark symptom of a pinworm infection is intense itching around the anus, particularly at night when female worms emerge to lay eggs. This itching typically manifests 1-2 months after initial infection, coinciding with the maturation and reproduction stage of the worms.

• Insomnia or disturbed sleep patterns due to nocturnal itching
• Abdominal discomfort or pain
• Irritability, likely stemming from persistent itching and sleep disturbances
• Potential infection of the female genital tract
• Secondary bacterial infections resulting from excessive scratching

Is the severity of symptoms related to the number of worms? Generally, yes. A mild infection with few adult worms may produce minimal or no symptoms, while a more severe infestation can lead to pronounced discomfort and increased risk of complications.

Diagnosing Pinworm Infections: From Tape Tests to Visual Confirmation

Accurate diagnosis of pinworm infections is crucial for effective treatment. Healthcare professionals employ several methods to confirm the presence of these parasites:

The Tape Test: A Sticky Situation

One of the most common diagnostic tools is the tape test. How does it work? A piece of clear adhesive tape is pressed against the skin around the anus, preferably in the early morning before bathing or using the toilet. The tape is then examined under a microscope for the presence of pinworm eggs. This method is particularly effective as female pinworms typically lay their eggs at night.

Moistened Swab: A Quick Sweep

In some cases, a healthcare provider may use a moistened swab to collect samples from the anal area. This method can be useful in detecting both eggs and adult worms.

Visual Confirmation: Catching Them in the Act

Sometimes, pinworms can be visually detected in the anal area, on underwear, or in toilet bowel movements. They appear as small, white, thread-like structures. For optimal detection in children, parents may be advised to inspect the anal area 2-3 hours after the child has fallen asleep, when female worms are most active.

How long should one monitor for pinworms? Medical professionals typically recommend checking for five consecutive mornings. If no evidence of pinworms is found during this period, a pinworm infection is unlikely to be diagnosed.

Treating Pinworm Infections: Breaking the Cycle

Fortunately, effective treatments are available to eliminate pinworm infections. The most common medications prescribed include:

• Mebendazole: A potent anthelmintic medication
• Pyrantel pamoate: Available over-the-counter in many countries
• Albendazole: Another effective prescription option

Is a single dose of medication sufficient to eradicate pinworms? Typically, no. The standard treatment protocol involves taking one dose at the onset of treatment and a second dose two weeks later. This two-dose regimen is crucial because the medications do not kill pinworm eggs, which can hatch and lead to reinfection if not addressed.

Household Treatment: A Family Affair

When one member of a household is diagnosed with pinworms, it’s generally recommended that all household members receive treatment simultaneously. This approach helps prevent reinfection cycles within the family unit. However, special considerations must be made for young children.

Are pinworm treatments safe for infants? For children under two years of age, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider before administering any treatment. The doctor can recommend the safest and most effective approach based on the child’s age and overall health status.

Preventing Pinworm Reinfection: The Power of Hygiene

While medication is crucial for eliminating existing pinworm infections, proper hygiene practices are the cornerstone of prevention and reducing the risk of reinfection. Here are some essential tips to keep pinworms at bay:

1. Practice thorough handwashing, especially after using the bathroom, changing diapers, and before handling food.
2. Opt for morning showers rather than baths to wash off any eggs deposited overnight.
3. Keep fingernails short and clean to prevent egg accumulation.
4. Avoid scratching the anal area to reduce the spread of eggs.
5. Refrain from touching the mouth area with unwashed hands.
6. Wash bedding and undergarments in hot water daily, and dry them using high heat.
7. Regularly clean and vacuum living spaces to remove any fallen eggs.

Can good hygiene prevent pinworm outbreaks even if reinfection occurs? Yes, maintaining strict hygiene practices can significantly reduce the likelihood of another full-blown outbreak, even if children are exposed to pinworms again through contact with infected friends or classmates.

The Spread of Pinworms: Understanding Transmission

Pinworm infections are highly contagious and can spread rapidly, especially in close-contact environments like schools, daycare centers, and households. Understanding the transmission process is crucial for effective prevention.

The Egg-to-Hand-to-Mouth Cycle

How do pinworms spread from person to person? The primary mode of transmission involves the following cycle:

1. An infected person touches their anus or underwear, picking up pinworm eggs on their fingers.
2. The infected individual touches various surfaces, depositing eggs.
3. Another person touches these contaminated surfaces and then touches their mouth, ingesting the eggs.
4. The cycle begins anew as the eggs hatch and mature in the new host.

How long can pinworm eggs survive outside the body? Remarkably, pinworm eggs can remain viable on surfaces for up to two weeks, contributing to their persistent nature and ease of spread.

Common Transmission Hotspots

Pinworm eggs can be transferred from an infected person’s anus to various items and surfaces, including:

• Bed sheets and bedding
• Carpets and flooring
• Towels and washcloths
• Underwear and clothing
• Bathroom fixtures and utensils
• Kitchen surfaces and utensils
• Toys and shared play items

This wide range of potential transmission points underscores the importance of thorough cleaning and hygiene practices in pinworm prevention and control.

Pinworms in Special Populations: Considerations and Precautions

While pinworm infections can affect individuals of all ages, certain groups require special attention and care when it comes to diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women

Are pinworm treatments safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding? This is a crucial question that requires professional medical advice. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should always consult their healthcare provider before using any anti-pinworm medications. Some treatments may be contraindicated or require dosage adjustments to ensure the safety of both mother and child.

Infants and Young Children

Pinworm infections in very young children, particularly those under six months of age, require special consideration. The immature immune systems of infants and their inability to follow hygiene practices make them particularly vulnerable to pinworm infections and potential complications.

How should pinworm infections be managed in infants? Parents should seek immediate medical advice if they suspect a pinworm infection in a baby. A pediatrician can provide guidance on safe treatment options and additional preventive measures tailored to the infant’s needs.

Immunocompromised Individuals

People with weakened immune systems, whether due to medical conditions or treatments, may be at higher risk for more severe pinworm infections or complications. These individuals should work closely with their healthcare providers to develop appropriate treatment and prevention strategies.

Potential Complications of Pinworm Infections

While most pinworm infections are relatively harmless and easily treated, in some cases, complications can arise. Understanding these potential issues is important for prompt recognition and treatment.

Secondary Bacterial Infections

One of the most common complications of pinworm infections is the development of secondary bacterial infections. These typically occur due to excessive scratching of the anal area, which can break the skin and allow bacteria to enter.

How can secondary infections be prevented? Keeping nails short and clean, avoiding scratching, and maintaining good hygiene practices can significantly reduce the risk of secondary infections.

Urinary Tract Infections

In some cases, particularly in females, pinworms can migrate into the urinary tract, leading to urinary tract infections (UTIs). This complication underscores the importance of proper hygiene and prompt treatment of pinworm infections.

Appendicitis

While rare, long-term, untreated pinworm infections have been associated with an increased risk of appendicitis. This potential complication highlights the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment of pinworm infections.

Can pinworms directly cause appendicitis? While pinworms are not typically a direct cause of appendicitis, their presence can potentially contribute to inflammation or obstruction of the appendix, particularly in severe, chronic infections.

Weight Loss and Nutritional Deficiencies

In cases of heavy pinworm infestations, particularly in children, there may be concerns about weight loss and nutritional deficiencies. While pinworms do not typically cause significant nutritional issues, the discomfort and sleep disturbances associated with severe infections can potentially impact a child’s eating habits and overall health.

Pinworms and Public Health: A Community Concern

Given their highly contagious nature, pinworm infections are not just an individual health issue but a community concern. Understanding the public health implications of pinworms is crucial for effective prevention and control strategies.

Pinworms in Schools and Daycare Centers

Educational and childcare settings are common hotspots for pinworm transmission due to the close contact between children and the challenges of maintaining perfect hygiene practices among young populations.

How should schools and daycare centers respond to pinworm outbreaks? Implementing comprehensive hygiene protocols, educating staff, children, and parents about prevention, and encouraging prompt treatment of infected individuals are key steps in managing and preventing pinworm outbreaks in these settings.

Community Education and Awareness

Raising awareness about pinworms, their transmission, and prevention strategies is crucial for community-wide control. Public health initiatives focusing on proper handwashing techniques, hygiene practices, and the importance of seeking medical attention for suspected infections can significantly reduce the prevalence of pinworms in a community.

The Role of Healthcare Providers

Healthcare providers play a vital role in the prevention and control of pinworm infections. By offering accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and education about prevention strategies, medical professionals can help reduce the burden of pinworm infections on individuals and communities.

Should healthcare providers screen for pinworms routinely? While routine screening is not typically recommended for asymptomatic individuals, healthcare providers should be alert to the possibility of pinworm infections, especially in children presenting with anal itching or sleep disturbances.

Natural Remedies and Alternative Treatments for Pinworms

While conventional medical treatments are the most reliable way to eliminate pinworm infections, some individuals may be interested in exploring natural or alternative remedies. It’s important to note that these methods should not replace medical treatment but may be used as complementary approaches under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Garlic: Nature’s Antiparasitic

Garlic has long been touted for its antiparasitic properties. Some believe that consuming raw garlic or applying garlic oil to the affected area may help combat pinworms.

Is garlic effective against pinworms? While some studies suggest garlic may have antiparasitic effects, there’s limited scientific evidence supporting its efficacy against pinworms specifically. It should not be relied upon as a sole treatment.

Coconut Oil: A Potential Ally

Coconut oil is sometimes recommended as a natural remedy for pinworms due to its alleged antimicrobial properties. Some suggest applying coconut oil to the anal area to soothe itching and potentially deter worms.

Probiotics: Boosting Gut Health

While not a direct treatment for pinworms, probiotics may help support overall gut health and potentially make the intestinal environment less hospitable to parasites.

Can probiotics prevent pinworm infections? While probiotics may contribute to general gut health, they are not a proven method for preventing or treating pinworm infections. They should be considered a complementary approach rather than a primary treatment.

The Importance of Professional Guidance

It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before trying any natural or alternative remedies for pinworm infections. These methods should not delay or replace conventional medical treatment, which remains the most effective way to eliminate pinworms and prevent complications.

Pinworms (threadworms): Symptoms, causes, and treatments

The pinworm, also known as threadworm, is a common intestinal parasite. It mostly occurs in children and leads to itching around the anus. A pinworm infestation is known as enterobiasis.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), pinworms are the most common type of worm infection in the United States.

Pinworms are parasites. They use the human body to survive and reproduce. Human pinworms cannot infect any other animals.

Adult female worms are 8–13 millimeters (mm) long, and males are 2–5 mm. They are whitish in color and look like small pieces of thread. They live for 2–3 weeks.

Effective treatment is available that can eliminate pinworms.

Here, find out how to recognize a pinworm infestation and how to treat it.

Some people have no symptoms. If they occur, the main symptom is itching around the anus that can disturb sleep. This occurs 1–2 months after the pinworms enter the body, during the maturing and reproduction stage.

There may also be:

• insomnia due to disturbed sleep
• abdominal pain
• infection of the female genital tract
• a secondary infection due to scratching
• irritability due to itching

If an individual only has a small number of adult worms, the symptoms will be mild, or there may be no symptoms. Symptoms are worse with a more severe infection.

Treatment is with medication, such as:

• mebendazole
• pyrantel pamoate, available without prescription
• albendazole

A person will need one dose at the beginning and another dose of the same drug 2 weeks later. This will prevent reinfection, because the drugs do not kill the eggs.

If one member of a household has an infection, all members should receive treatment.

Speak with a doctor if a child under 2 years needs treatment. The doctor can recommend the safest and most effective approach for the child’s age.

Strict hygiene measures can remedy pinworm infection and significantly reduce the risk of reinfection.

Tips include the following:

• Practice careful handwashing techniques, especially after using the bathroom, changing diapers, and handling food.
• Shower every morning to wash off any eggs. Showering is better than bathing as it prevents eggs passing onto the bath.
• Keep the fingernails clean to prevent reinfection.
• Avoid scratching around the anus.
• Avoid putting the fingers in the mouth.
• Wash bed linen and underclothes in hot water in the morning after waking up. Do not shake them but move them straight to the washer. Dry with a hot dryer.

When the infestation has gone, good handwashing practices and hygiene will help prevent reinfection. Good hygiene can prevent another outbreak even if children pick up another pinworm infection from friends at school.

If a person with a pinworm infection touches their underwear, bedsheets, or their anus, they can pick up eggs on their fingers.

If they touch another surface, they can leave the eggs there. Anyone who touches that surface and then touches their mouth is at risk of infection. Eggs can live on a surface for 2 weeks.

The female pinworm lays eggs around the anus and vagina. The eggs can be transferred from the person’s anus to:

• bed sheets
• carpets
• hands
• towels
• underwear and clothes

The female pinworm releases an itchy mucus when laying eggs, triggering an urge to scratch the affected area of the anus or vagina. From the hands, the eggs can pass on to anything that is touched, including:

• bathroom utensils, such as toothbrushes, combs, and brushes
• other people’s hands
• furniture
• kitchen and bathroom surfaces
• kitchen utensils
• toys

To diagnose a pinworm infection, a doctor may use the following:

Tape test

The doctor places a piece of clear plastic tape against the skin around the anus and then looks at the tape under a microscope. As the worm tends to lay eggs at night, good samples are more likely early in the morning. People may apply the tape at home and take or send the sample to the doctor.

Moistened swab

A doctor or nurse may take a moistened swab around the anal area.

Sighting a worm

Sometimes worms are visible in the anal area, on underwear, or in the toilet. In stool, they look like small pieces of white cotton thread.

To examine a child, inspect the anal area 2–3 hours after going to sleep, when the females are active outside the anus.

If there is no evidence of pinworms for 5 consecutive mornings, a doctor will not diagnose a pinworm infection.

Anyone who believes they have a pinworm infection should seek medical advice.

People should take extra care if they:

• are pregnant
• are breastfeeding
• have a baby less than 6 months of age

Occasionally, complications can arise, for instance:

• a secondary bacterial infection due to scratching
• urinary tract infection
• appendicitis, if the infection lasts a long time and there is no treatment

Here are some questions people often ask about pinworms.

How can you tell if you have pinworms?

The main symptom of pinworms is itching around the anus, especially at night.

How does a person get pinworms?

A person can take in the eggs by touching a surface that another person — who has an infection and has eggs on their fingers — has touched. Less commonly, they can take them in by shaking out bedding and breathing in and swallowing eggs in the air.

Do pinworms go away without treatment?

To treat pinworms, a doctor may recommend two doses of medication, 2 weeks apart and following strict hygiene practices to avoid reinfection. One medication, pyrantel pamoate, is available without a prescription. A doctor may not recommend medication for children under 2 years.

A pinworm infection happens when the eggs of a pinworm enter a person’s intestine. As the females mature, they move to the anal area. At night, they leave the anus and lay eggs in the area around it.

Some people have no symptoms, but it can cause severe itching. In the long term, more severe complications can occur.

Not everyone needs treatment for an infection, but two doses of medication 2 weeks apart can eliminate pinworms.

Pinworm infection – Symptoms & causes

Overview

Pinworm infection is the most common type of intestinal worm infection in the United States and one of the most common worldwide. Pinworms are thin and white, measuring about 1/4 to 1/2 inch (about 6 to 13 millimeters) in length.

Pinworm

An adult pinworm generally is 1/4 to 1/2 inch (about 6 to 13 millimeters) in length. The most common symptom of infection is anal itching, particularly at night, as worms migrate to the host’s anal area to lay their eggs.

While the infected person sleeps, female pinworms lay thousands of eggs in the folds of skin surrounding the anus. Most people infected with pinworms have no symptoms, but some people experience anal itching and restless sleep.

Pinworm infection occurs most often in school-age children, and the tiny (microscopic) eggs are easily spread from child to child. Treatment involves oral drugs that kill the pinworms and thorough washing of pajamas, bedding and underwear. For best results, the entire family should be treated.

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Symptoms

Symptoms of pinworm infection may include:

• Itching of the anal or vaginal area
• Insomnia, irritability, teeth grinding and restlessness
• Occasional stomach pain and nausea

Pinworms often cause no symptoms.

When to see a doctor

Consult your doctor if you have severe anal itching, especially at night.

Causes

Accidentally swallowing or breathing in pinworm eggs causes a pinworm infection. The tiny (microscopic) eggs can be carried to your mouth by contaminated food, drink or your fingers. Once swallowed, the eggs hatch in the intestines and mature into adult worms within a few weeks.

Female pinworms move to the anal area to lay their eggs, which often results in anal itching. When you scratch the itchy area, the eggs cling to your fingers and get under your fingernails. The eggs then get transferred to other surfaces, such as toys, bedding or toilet seats. The eggs can also be transferred from contaminated fingers to food, liquids, clothes or other people.

Pinworm eggs can survive for two to three weeks on surfaces.

Risk factors

Risk factors for pinworm infection include:

• Being young. Pinworm infections are most likely to occur in children ages 5 to 10. The tiny (microscopic) eggs are easily spread to family members, caregivers, or other children at school or child care centers. Pinworm infections are uncommon in children younger than age 2.
• Living in crowded spaces. People who live in institutions are at higher risk of developing pinworm infections.

Complications

Typical pinworm infections don’t cause serious problems. In rare circumstances, heavy infestations can cause infection of female genitals.

The parasite can travel from the anal area up the vagina to the uterus, fallopian tubes and around the pelvic organs. This can cause problems such as inflammation of the vagina (vaginitis) and inflammation of the inner lining of the uterus (endometritis).

Although rare, other complications of a pinworm infection may include:

• Urinary tract infections
• Weight loss
• Infection of part of the abdomen (peritoneal cavity)

Prevention

Pinworm eggs can cling to surfaces, including toys, faucets, bedding and toilet seats, for two weeks. So besides regular cleaning of surfaces, methods to help prevent the spread of pinworm eggs or to prevent reinfection include:

• Wash in the morning. Because pinworms lay their eggs at night, washing the anal area in the morning can help reduce the number of pinworm eggs on your body. Showering may help avoid possible re-contamination in bath water.
• Change underwear and bedding daily. This helps remove eggs.
• Launder in hot water. Wash bedsheets, pajamas, underwear, washcloths and towels in hot water to help kill pinworm eggs. Dry on high heat.
• Don’t scratch. Avoid scratching the anal area. Trim your child’s fingernails so there’s less space for eggs to collect. Suggest that your child avoid biting his or her nails.
• Wash your hands. To reduce your risk of getting or spreading an infection, wash your hands well after using the toilet or changing a diaper and before eating.

Enterobiasis – pinworm invasion. Causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of enterobiosis

Author

Vanyukova Irina Alexandrovna

Leading physician

Pediatrician, pediatric gastroenterologist, doctor of the highest category

Pediatrician

9 0002 Creation date: 2016.03.29

Pinworms

Enterobiasis is a parasitic disease, one of the most common helminthiases. Enterobiasis is caused by pinworms. In Latin pinworms are called Enterobius vermicularis, hence the name of the disease.

Pinworms are small round worms of a grayish-white color. The length of male pinworms is up to 5 mm, females – up to 13 mm. The living environment of pinworms is the human intestine (caecum, lower small intestine, large intestine). Pinworm eggs enter the human body by the oral route (through the mouth). In the intestines, larvae emerge from the eggs, which turn into sexually mature individuals. This process takes 2 to 4 weeks. The fertilized female crawls out of the anus and lays eggs around it. Eggs require a temperature of 34-36 °C and high humidity for maturation. The skin folds in the perianal region ideally provide these conditions. The exit of female pinworms most often occurs at night, when the muscles of the anal sphincter are relaxed. After that, the life cycle of the pinworm is completed. Thus, pinworms live no longer than a month.

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Causes of enterobiasis

How pinworm infection occurs

Enterobiasis can only be contracted from a person who is a carrier of pinworms. Pinworms do not live in the body of animals, and enterobiasis cannot be infected from animals.

Self-infection is common. The female pinworm lays up to 13,000 eggs, sealing them with an acid that causes intense itching. A person wants to scratch, and when he does this, the eggs fall under the nails, on the fingers, and from them – on the bed and underwear, household items. During life in a team, the spread of enterobiasis is very likely. If someone in the family becomes infected with pinworms, after some time enterobiasis can affect all family members.

Enterobiasis is a predominantly childhood disease

Most often, enterobiasis is detected in children aged 4 to 9 years. This is
due to the fact that children at this age already take care of their own
hygiene, but have not yet fully mastered all the necessary skills.

Enterobiasis symptoms

The main symptom of enterobiasis is severe itching in the anus. Itching usually begins 12-14 days after infection, when the first female pinworms crawl out to lay eggs. Enterobiasis is characterized by itching (or intensification of itching) at night.

Intensive scratching can lead to dermatitis, the addition of a secondary infection.

At the same time, very often the child suffers from enterobiasis unnoticed by the parents. If there are no other symptoms besides itching, the child may scratch, not considering this a problem and not complaining about anything. Therefore, enterobiasis is often detected only during preventive examinations of children.

Other symptoms of enterobiasis:

Abdominal pain

If there are many parasites in the intestines, abdominal pain and flatulence may occur.

Stool disorder

The presence of pinworms in the intestine leads to disruption of its work, dysbacteriosis develops, stool disorder is observed (alternating diarrhea and constipation).

Allergic manifestations

Pinworms release toxins that poison the body and cause a response in the form of allergic manifestations. With enterobiasis (especially in children), headache, dizziness, increased fatigue, and decreased performance are possible. Children can become capricious, excitable; such children are difficult to put to sleep, their sleep is easily interrupted. In a dream, they can scream, cry, grind their teeth.

Disease of the genitourinary system in women

In women, pinworms, migrating, can leave the anus and enter the vagina. At the same time, intestinal microflora (in particular, E. coli) can be introduced into the genital tract, which can lead to the development of inflammation – colpitis, urethritis.

Diagnostic methods for enterobiasis

Diagnosis of enterobiasis is made on the basis of the results of laboratory tests. Analysis of feces for eggs of helminth pinworms, as a rule, does not detect. This is due to the fact that pinworm eggs do not enter the feces. To detect pinworm lesions, scraping from the folds of the skin around the anus (scraping for enterobiasis) is used.

Scraping for enterobiasis

Scraping for enterobiasis in a child can be done in the treatment room of any of the clinics of the Family Doctor. The procedure is carried out quickly and does not cause any discomfort in children.

Biological material is transferred to the Family Doctor’s own laboratory for microscopic examination.

To accurately diagnose the disease, make an appointment with the specialists of the Family Doctor network.

Enterobiasis treatments

Enterobiosis

Treatment of enterobiasis is carried out by pediatricians, and in adult patients – by gastroenterologists.

For the success of treatment, it is important that all family members are treated at the same time. Careful observance of personal hygiene is also necessary. When treating children, parents should pay special attention to the hygiene of the child.

Anthelmintic drugs

Anthelmintic drugs are used in the treatment of enterobiasis.

Do not self-medicate. Contact our specialists who will correctly diagnose and prescribe treatment.

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Pinworms

Pinworms is one of the most common intestinal helminths.

Pinworms are tiny parasitic nematodes (2-14 mm) that live in the intestines and lay their eggs on the skin around the anus.

Pinworm infection is also known as “enterobiasis”.

The disease most often occurs in children aged 5 to 10 years.

A person becomes infected by ingesting helminth eggs.

In the intestines, larvae emerge from the eggs, which parasitize in the lower parts of the small intestine, and in the large intestine they turn into an adult.

At night, a mature female leaves the anus and lays eggs on the skin in the folds of skin around the anus, perineum, buttocks lays eggs (from 2 to 15 thousand).

After 4-5 hours, the eggs become “invasive” (infectious) for humans, because. during this time, larvae mature in eggs.

If an infected person touches household items such as bedding, clothing, toilet seat, or toys, the eggs are transferred to those items.

Eggs can also be transferred from contaminated fingers directly to food.

Although rare, adults can also inhale airborne eggs by shaking contaminated bedding, towels, or clothing.

The causative agent of enterobiasis is resistant to various disinfectants. On toys, bedding, carpets and other household items, the causative agent of enterobiasis remains viable for up to 21 days, on environmental objects – in the upper soil layers of playgrounds, sand from sandboxes – up to 14 days, in tap and waste water – up to 7 days. The stability of pinworm eggs in the external environment increases as they mature. At a temperature of plus 22-28 ° C and a decrease in humidity to 60%, pinworm eggs remain viable for up to 8 days.

Who is at risk of contracting enterobiasis?

Pinworms affect people of all ages, enterobiasis is ubiquitous.

Most susceptible to infection:

• children attending organized institutions (especially kindergartens, camps)
• family members or carers of those infected
• people living in public institutions such as hostels
• people who do not follow the rules of personal hygiene, namely regular and thorough hand washing before eating
• children who have a habit of thumb sucking, nail biting

Is it possible to get pinworms from pets?

No, the only source of infection is humans.

Symptoms of enterobiasis:

• Itching, scratching accompanying pinworms on the skin
• Scratching the skin provokes the spread of pinworm eggs and re-infection, as a result of which the disease can last for a long time. Eggs can survive for hours on hands, under fingernails.
• Allergic reaction, rash
• Irritability, tearfulness, restless sleep
• Presence of pinworms in feces

Some people with enterobiasis may not experience any symptoms.

The danger of enterobiasis lies in the fact that pinworms that parasitize in the human intestine produce toxins – waste products that cause intoxication of the body. Pinworms, parasitizing on the mucosa, injure it, which can lead to the addition of a secondary fungal or bacterial infection.

The diagnosis is made on the basis of a laboratory test.

Treatment is prescribed by a doctor.

Children infested with pinworms, which are sources of the spread of enterobiasis, are not allowed into preschool educational institutions for the period of treatment and control laboratory examination.

In addition to following the doctor’s recommendations, it is necessary to prevent the spread of infection and the risk of re-infection.

Washing your hands with soap and warm water after using the toilet, changing diapers, and before eating is the most effective way to prevent pinworm infection.

Parents are advised to ensure that children do not bite their nails.

Follow the rules of personal hygiene and change your underwear daily.

Infected people should not share bathing with other people.

Those infected should avoid taking baths. It is necessary to take a shower every morning.

Prevention of enterobiasis includes a set of measures:

• detection of patients (parasite carriers) with enterobiasis
• treatment of identified infested persons and prophylaxis of persons in contact with infested persons
• monitoring of the circulation of the enterobiasis pathogen in groups with an increased risk of infection

Disinfestation is carried out in the focus of infection:

• furniture and other surfaces are wiped with special disinfection-disinfestation agents
• soft toys, upholstered furniture and carpets are treated with a vacuum cleaner, followed by dust disinfection.