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Worms in Infants

Pinworms also known as seatworms or threadworms (Enterobius vermicularis) are common parasites that infect the human intestine. They live for up to six weeks, and females can reach up to 13 mm long. The worms look like threads of cotton and can cause itchiness of the anus or vagina, and a severe case of worms can lead to weight loss and irritability.

  1. Symptoms

    • You may not be aware that your baby has worms, as there are few symptoms. He may be losing weight or not putting on enough weight, he may be irritable and having difficulty sleeping, and he may suffer itching, particularly around the anus where the worms leave the body at night to lay their eggs in a jelly-like substance. It is possible to see the pinworms protruding from the anus at night by shining a flashlight on the baby's bottom.

    Causes of Infection

    • Pinworms are spread by poor hygiene. The females lay their eggs at the entrance to the anus or vagina. If a child scratches, she can get eggs on her hands and then spread them to toys and other people. Eggs that are swallowed will hatch once they are in the intestine. Eggs can live up to two weeks and can be spread by caregivers who have not washed their hands after handling infected bed linen, pajamas or dirty diapers. Older siblings or adults can easily pass on pinworms to a baby.

    Diagnosis

    • If you suspect your infant has worms, the most effective test is to tape a strip of transparent tape to the folds of the anus as soon as the child wakes in the morning. If there are any eggs laid, they will adhere to the tape and can be identified under a microscope at your health center. Take the tape in a sealed plastic bag for identification. If you see actual pinworms, you can diagnose the problem yourself and seek immediate treatment.

    Treatment

    • It is important to treat all the members of the household at the same time, as cross infection is very common. Take an oral medication available from your health care provider and repeat the treatment after two weeks. Wash all bed linen and underwear thoroughly. Eggs can survive for two weeks, so be extra vigilant by cutting your child's nails as short as possible to stop her from scratching and ensure that good personal hygiene is maintained with frequent hand washing and daily baths.

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