Threadworm Enterobius Vermicularis

Written by Lone Parenting Advisor

Threadworm (Enterobius Vermicularis) is a small tiny worm (also referred to as Pinworm) that enters the body and infests. The Threadworm (Enterobius Vermicularis) then inhabit within the intestines where everything they need to survive is provided.

These Threadworm (Enterobius Vermicularis) are very popular in children and thrive in the school environment where handwashing plays a big role.

The large white female Threadworm (Enterobius Vermicularis) tends to lay her eggs in the skin surrounding the childs anus which causes itchiness and discomfort (usually at night).

The Threadworm (Enterobius Vermicularis) eggs are transferred into the mouth from your fingers where you will be re infested all over again. Threadworm (Enterobius Vermicularis) eggs can also be carried on toys and play equipment that other children use and in turn also become infested.

When the Threadworm (Enterobius Vermicularis) eggs are ingested they travel down to the intestines where the eggs hatch. The eggs take between two to six weeks to reach adulthood then the cycle resarts and the whole process is on going until treated.

Signs and Symptoms

• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Restless sleep
• Irritation around the anus
• Itching around the anus
• Adult Threadworm (Enterobius Vermicularis) can sometimes be seen on the bottom or in faeces

In rare cases there are abdominal pains and in some girls the Threadworm (Enterobius Vermicularis) can get into the vagina causing a discharge.

Incubation Period

There is no incubation period with Threadworm (Enterobius Vermicularis).

Treatment

Threadworm (Enterobius Vermicularis) and their eggs when visible on the anus can be caught in a piece of sticky tape, removed and identified.

Contact your childs Gp for treatment of Threadworm (Enterobius Vermicularis).

Treatment is normally taken in a drink form, these are called Anthelmintic Drugs and they work by paralysing the Threadworm (Enterobius Vermicularis) while they are in the intestines and flushing them out with the faeces.

To prevent reinfestation of Threadworm (Enterobius Vermicularis) ALL family members must take this treatment together and repeate it together in six weeks time.

Life Cycle

Below is the diagram of the life cycle of Threadworm (Enterobius Vermicularis).