Pinworms

What are pinworms?

Also known as threadworms, pinworms (Enterobius vermicularis)  are a small, threadlike worm of the colon and rectum. Pinworms are most common in school aged children, although any individual can become infected with pinworms.  Humans are the only natural host for pinworms. They are the most common parasitic worm to infect humans.

How do you become infected with pinworms?

Infection occurs when pinworm eggs (ova) are swallowed.

Once swallowed, the eggs develop into larvae in the small intestine, then move down to the large intestine. The larvae mature in around 4 weeks & a further 4 weeks to reach sexual maturity at which time the male & female worms mate. After mating, the male dies & the adult female then migrates to anus where she emerges to lay  her eggs along with a sticky substance around the surrounding skin. After laying the eggs the female also dies.

A sticky substance is secreted after the eggs have been The sticky substance causes intense itching. The resulting scratching leads to eggs being transferred to the fingers & fingernails.

Other sources of infection include;

• Bedding

• Toys

• Clothing

• Towels

• Food

• Food utensils

A single female can lay over 10,000 eggs. Pinworm eggs can survive for two weeks in the environment & people can become infected by inhaling eggs in dust, on sheets etc.

Pinworm symptoms: 

It is quite common to experience no symptoms whatsoever. However, typical symptoms of pinworms include;

• Itching around the anus, especially at night.

• Disturbed sleep.

• Irritability & behavioral changes.

• You may also see the worms around the anus. They are around 1cm long, white & thin.

• You may see adult worms in the feces.

• Scratching may lead to secondary bacterial infections.

Adult threadworms may on rare occasions enter the vagina, leading to irritation & inflammation.

Diagnosis may be made either by seeing adult worms around the anus or in the feces or detecting worms or eggs on the perianal skin

Pinworms treatment:

You should consult your doctor if you suspect you or a family member has threadworms. They will either recommend a prescription medication or an over the counter medication from your pharmacist.  All members of the family should be treated at the same time.

Bedding and towels should be washed (preferably hot water) at the same time of treatment.

Preventing threadworm & re-infection:

If you or a family member has pinworms you should prevent the spread of infection by;

• Not sharing towels.

• Washing hands & under the finger nails thoroughly before eating, after going to the toilet & after changing a nappy.

• Changing underwear & night clothes every day.

• Changing bed sheets after each treatment.

• Keep fingernails short.

• Daily bathing or showering.

• Regularly disinfect your toilet, toilet seat & toilet button.