Understanding pinworms and pinworm infections - part 1

LIFESTYLE NEWS - Pinworms are tiny, narrow worms that are white and less than half an inch long and are the most common type of worm infections in humans.

They are most common in children between the ages of five and 10, people who live in institutions and those who have regular, close contact with individuals in these groups.

Pinworm infections can be effectively treated with medication, though reinfection is possible. Serious complications and long-term health effects are rare.

Pinworm infections are highly contagious. You become infected with pinworms by unintentionally ingesting pinworm eggs, which have been deposited onto a surface by an infected person. The female pinworms lay eggs in the folds of skin around the anus.

When a person scratches the affected area, the pinworm eggs are transferred to the fingers. The eggs can survive for several hours on your hands. If the infected person touches bedding, clothing, toilet seats, toys, or other household objects, the eggs are transferred to these surfaces.

Pinworm eggs can survive on these contaminated surfaces for up to three weeks.

The transfer of pinworm eggs is easier among children, who may put infected toys or other objects directly into their mouths.

While anyone can get a pinworm infection, the following groups are more susceptible:

Children who attend daycare, preschool, or elementary school
Family members or caregivers of infected children and adults
Individuals who live in institutions or other crowded accommodations
Children who don't practice regular and careful hand washing prior to eating
Children who have a habit of sucking their thumbs

Some individuals with pinworm infections may not experience any symptoms. However, you may suspect that you or your child has a pinworm infection if you notice: