Pinworms are small, thin, white worms that infect the intestines. Medline Plus reports that pinworm infections are most common in school-age children who unknowingly touch pinworm eggs. The children then transfer the eggs into their bodies when they put their hands in their mouths. The eggs hatch in the intestine and mature in the colon. Female pinworms then lay their eggs in the folds of skin around the anus. The eggs cause the anal area to itch. When children scratch the anal area, they transfer the eggs to other people and things they touch. Intense anal itching and inability to sleep due to itching are the most commonly reported symptoms of a pinworm infection.
Anti-Parasitic Medication
The main treatment for pinworm infection is a single dose of an anti-parasitic medication, according to MayoClinic.com. The anti-parasitic medications mebendazole, albendazole and pyrantel are available by prescription or over-the-counter. The medications take two weeks to take full effect. If the pinworm infection, including eggs, has not been eradicated, the medication may be repeated. It is important to treat all members of the household, whether infected or not, to prevent infection and avoid reinfection.
Strict Personal Hygiene
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that pinworm reinfection can occur easily, so adherence to strict personal hygiene recommendations is necessary. Daily morning bathing should be continued at least until all infected persons have completed their full doses of anti-parasitic medications. Daily washing removes a large portion of pinworm eggs. Showering is recommended to avoid possible contamination of bath water. In addition, meticulous handwashing should be performed. Infected persons should be instructed to avoid scratching the infected anal area in order to prevent contamination of another source and possible reinfection.
Household Cleaning Regimen
All bed linen should be washed twice a week for the duration of treatment for a pinworm infection, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Underclothing, pajamas, towels and washcloths should also be washed frequently to avoid reinfection. Items should be laundered in hot water in order to kill any pinworm eggs that may be present.
