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What Causes Pinworms & Tapeworms?

Several types of worms infect humans and result in intestinal infections. Oftentimes, worm infections can occur without person ever developing symptoms. Symptoms of tapeworm infection may include abdominal pain, nausea and fatigue. Pinworms can cause annoying itching of the rectal area, while children may suffer from restlessness and irritability. The causes of worms infections vary, depending on the worm species.

  1. Pinworm Infection

    • Pinworm infections are caused by tiny, white nematodes known as Enterobius vermicularis. Infections spread through the fecal-oral route, which means an individual transmits pinworm eggs when not practicing proper hygiene, such as hand-washing. The pinworm eggs contained under fingernails can be inadvertently swallowed, or an infestation can occue after coming into contact with contaminated objects such as bedding and clothing, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Pinworms can survive on surfaces such as kitchen countertops for up to three weeks, making transmission possible through this manner. Occasionally, pinworm infections can occur through inhalation of eggs.ß

    Pinworm Risks

    • School-age children have a higher risk of developing a pinworm infections due to a close environment at school. Going to school with several other children makes it easier for a child to bring pinworms into the home and spread the worms to other family members. Co-bathing among children can also spread pinworm infections. If you have an infected child, it's best to avoid bathing with non-infected children; showering can reduce the risk of reinfection.

    Tapeworm Species

    • Many types of tapeworms can infect humans.

      Several species of tapeworms exist, which have different transmission methods. The Dipylidium caninum infects both cats and dogs, and rarely infects humans. The Taenia species, Taenia saginata (beef tapeworm), Taenia asiatica (Asian tapeworm) and the Taenia solium (pork tapeworm) can infect humans. Diphyllobothrium latum is a fish tapeworm and "the largest human tapeworm," states the CDC.

    Tapeworm Transmission

    • Dipylidium caninum occurs when a person swallows a flea infected with the tapeworm. An infected pet, such as your cat or dog, can carry infected fleas into your home, resulting in possible infection. Taenia solium infections can occur by eating infected or undercooked pork, while infection by Taenia saginata can occur after eating raw or contaminated beef. Taenia asiatica infection occurs from consuming uncooked pork containing organs and is more prevalent in Asian countries, such as China and Korea. Diphyllobothrium latum infection can occur after eating infected or undercooked fish such as sushi.

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