How to Prevent Hookworm

In healthy adults, infection by hookworms isn't very serious, causing mild diarrhea or cramps. The parasite is more dangerous for babies, pregnant women and undernourished people. Though hookworms once plagued the soil in the southeastern United States, they aren't as common there as in tropical and subtropical climates in southern Europe, Africa, Asia and South America.

Instructions

• 1

  Hookworms most often enter the body through the bare hands or feet. Wear shoes when you may be exposed to soil contaminated by human waste.

• 2

  Avoid swallowing dirt in areas where human waste may have been buried or deposited.

• 3

  Avoid letting children play, especially barefoot, in soils and sand that may have been contaminated.

• 4

  Watch for a rash or itching where skin has been in contact with soil or sand. That's the first sign of infection.

• 5

  Seek treatment if an infection is suspected. A stool sample is required for diagnosis. In the United States, treatment involves a 1 to 3 day course of medication.