What are the symptoms of worms in children?
If your child has threadworm they will experience itching of the anus. This itching gets worse at night when the worms come to the skin surface to lay eggs. The symptoms of threadworm are uncomfortable, but pose no threat to the health of your child if quickly treated.
How do I treat worms in children?
If your child has threadworm it is recommended that you treat all members of your household to reduce the risk of reinfection or spreading the condition.
Anti-parasitic medicines containing mebendazole or piperazine are used for the treatment of worms in children. A single dose is usually all that is needed, but it pays to be vigilant as they can easily return.
How do I stop worms spreading?
Threadworm in children is spread by contact. Young children often touch objects and animals and put their fingers in their mouths without a second though; this is why they are so susceptible to the condition. Good hygiene is always the best line of defence; make sure children wash there hands after going to the toilet and petting animals and try to discourage them from sucking their thumbs or biting their nails.
For further information and advice, please visit our main
worms page.