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Pinworms are most often found in preschool and school-aged children and their parents. These small, threadlike worms (0.25– 0.5 inches long) are found in the human intestines and crawl out of the rectum at night to lay eggs.
Symptoms
Itching around the anus which can cause sleep disturbances and restlessness. Some infected people will experience no symptoms.
Symptoms
Itching around the anus which can cause sleep disturbances and restlessness. Some infected people will experience no symptoms.
Spread
Pinworm eggs are taken into the mouth when a person fails to wash hands well after scratching the rectal area, using the toilet, or handling contaminated pajamas, underwear, or bedding. Pinworm eggs can also become airborne and ingested while breathing.
Spread
Pinworm eggs are taken into the mouth when a person fails to wash hands well after scratching the rectal area, using the toilet, or handling contaminated pajamas, underwear, or bedding. Pinworm eggs can also become airborne and ingested while breathing.
Contagious Period
As long as eggs are present. Eggs can remain infectious outside the body for as long as two to three weeks.
Contagious Period
As long as eggs are present. Eggs can remain infectious outside the body for as long as two to three weeks.
Exclusion
Exclusion
Child Care and School: None
Causes
Causes
Enterobius vermicularis, a parasite
Incubation
Incubation
It takes one to two weeks from exposure until symptoms occur.
Prevention/Control
Prevention/Control
Frequent, careful hand washing by child care staff, children, and household members.
When a child wakes up, you may see the worms around the rectum or in the stool. If you suspect pinworms, contact your healthcare provider. He/she may advise examining the whole family.
Avoid scratching or touching bare rectal area or biting nails. It is important to keep fingernails short, groomed and clean.
For several days after treatment
Bathe every morning (shower preferred), using a clean washcloth and towel, followed by a clean change of underclothing.
Change bedding and clothing daily and wash in hot water. Do not shake bedding to prevent spreading eggs through the air.
Clean and vacuum house daily.
Is it Reportable?
Is it Reportable?
Parents/guardians: Inform your school/child care provider if your child has this illness.
Disease Information Print out
Disease Information Print out
Pinworms.pdf
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