Pinworms in Kids

Pinworms infections are most common in children since they often forget to wash their hands after using the restroom, as noted by Mayo Clinic. Symptoms of a pinworm infection can include anal itching. If you notice your child constantly scratching, see your physician to prevent transmission to other family members.

Transmission

• Female pinworms lay their eggs around the rectal area, which sometimes causes intense itching. When your child scratches the affected area, the pinworm eggs become trapped underneath her nails. The eggs can transfer to inanimate objects such as toys, clothes or bedding and ultimately, other children. Because of their size, your child can inhale pinworm eggs when airborne, states the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Pinworm eggs may also transfer from child to child through co-bathing with an affected child.

Identification

• You can check your child's stool to determine if they have pinworm; the parasites look like small pieces of thread. Pinworms will also appear in your child's underwear in the morning. If you suspect a pinworm infection, conduct a tape test by applying a small piece of tape to your child's anal area. Your physician can examine the tape for worms. Your physician can also scrape underneath your child's nails to collect pinworm eggs.

Treatment

• Topical hydrocortisone can alleviate your child's anal itching. According to Mayo Clinic, your physician can prescribe antiparasitic medications such as mebendazole. Antiparasitic medications come in two doses, with the second treatment administered two weeks after the first treatment.

Prevention

• Washing and trimming your child's fingernails can help prevent transmission. Teaching your child to avoid scratching his bottom will prevent reinfection. Washing and changing your child's underwear daily will remove pinworm eggs. Showering can prevent contamination of bath water. Washing clothes, stuffed toys and bed linens regularly will also prevent reinfection.