Pinworm infection is caused by a small, thin, white roundworm called Enterobius vermicularis. Pinworm affects all individuals, however is most common in Children and individuals who share a household with an affected person. Intestinal Parasites (common such as Pinworm and threadworm) are transmitted by a person ingesting pinworm eggs either directly or indirectly. These eggs are deposited around the anus by the worm as after 1 to 2 months or longer the adult female matures in the small intestine. Once mature, the adult female worm migrates to the colon and lays eggs around the anus at night, often while the individual is sleeping, this at times causing itching resulting in transferring eggs under the fingernails and onto the hands. By putting anyone’s contaminated hands (including one’s own) around the mouth area or putting one’s mouth on common contaminated surfaces, a person can ingest pinworm eggs and become infected with the pinworm parasite.

Pinworm infections are treatable by using over-the-counter or prescription medication available by a Doctor or Pharmacy. Signs and symptoms include itching around the anus, however a person may present with less common symptoms such as teeth grinding, insomnia due to disturbed sleep, abdominal pain, fever and restlessness. Infection of the female genital tract has been well reported.

One of the most important ways to help prevent the transfer on intestinal parasites is to teach children about the importance of good hand hygiene using soap and warm water, Particularly after using the toilet and before eating.

What to do if an individual in your household is diagnosed with pinworms or threadworms:

• Treat all members of the household with over the counter medication. Repeat treatment in 2 weeks if necessary.

• Increase good hand hygiene.

• Bathe or shower every morning.

• Keep fingernails short.

• Wash nightclothes, bedding and soft toys at a hot temperature.

• Change nightclothes daily.

• Wipe down surfaces and floors with a damp cloth.

• Do not bite nails.

• Do not shake out bedding or clothing.

• Do not share towels or flannels.

https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/children.html

https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/pinworm/index.html

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/threadworms