Pinworms
What are pinworms?Pinworms look like tiny white threads that live in the bowel. They tend to be more active at night as they travel to the rectal opening and lay eggs on the outside skin. This causes severe itching and tends to be very annoying to say the least!
How do you catch pinworms?
Pinworm eggs can be anywhere: in your classroom, in your bed, or even in the air. If you get dirt under your fingernails and then put your fingers in your mouth, you could accidentally eat some pinworm eggs without even knowing it! The eggs, which are too small to see, contaminate whatever they come in to contact with: bedclothes, underwear, hands, and food touched by contaminated hands. Even eggs floating in the air can be swallowed and cause infection. Anyone can get pinworms. The condition is very contagious and can spread very quickly throughout the school.
Is there a treatment for pinworms?
Yes, pinworms can be treated medically. If you suspect your child may have pinworms, please have him/her seen by a physician. Your doctor will prescribe a medication to be taken, and often times the entire family is treated. Children are allowed back in school immediately after treatment.
To prevent re-infection follow these rules:
- Wash hands and fingernails with soap and water often during the day, especially before eating and after using the toilet.
- Do not scratch! Scratching will cause pinworm eggs to stick to the fingers. Re-infection will result if the fingers are placed in the mouth.
- Wear tight underpants both day and night. Change them daily.
- For several days after treatment, clean the bedroom floor by vacuuming or damp mopping - Try to avoid dry sweeping that may stir up dust.
- Wash bedding daily for a week after treatment.
- Keep toilet seats clean
