Enterobius vermicularis is the scientific name for pinworm, the culprit behind the most common worm infection in the United States. People who attend, work or live in schools or institutionalized settings are at the most risk for pinworm infections. If your child is infected with these small, white roundworms, getting the condition diagnosed and treated is vital -- or the rest of your family could be the next hosts. According to 2010 information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, pinworms affect as many as one-third of all American children.
Parasitic Infections
Roundworms are parasites that infect people -- and pinworms are a type of roundworm. Infection occurs when children touch an infected person's hands or objects -- which contain the parasite's eggs -- and then put their own hands in or near their mouths. With pinworms, the eggs are so tiny that it's possible to inhale them. They can live 2 to 3 weeks on bedding, clothing, toys and other objects, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The majority of roundworms make their homes in the intestinal tract and pinworms are no exception. Although adult pinworms live in the large intestine, the pregnant worms lay eggs in the anal area.
Effects
The tiny pinworm eggs cause the anal itching associated with this parasitic infection. This can affect your child's sleep, as the itching is usually worse at night because pregnant worms tend to move around the area during this time to lay their eggs, notes Kids Health. In fact, you may be able to see these worms on clothing, sheets or around the anus about 2 to 3 hours after your child is asleep. Not all children have itching, but if it occurs, it is usually the only symptom. It is possible for this infection to affect a girl's vaginal area, causing discharge. In severe intestinal infections, abdominal discomfort could occur but this is rare.
Treatment
Medical diagnostic samples -- including urine and stool -- are usually not effective in finding pinworms. Pressing a piece of clear tape on your child's anal area when he wakes up for three consecutive mornings should provide evidence of an infection because the tiny eggs adhere to the tape. The eggs can be seen under a microscope. Consult your child's doctor if you believe your child has a pinworm infection. An anti-parasitic medication is typically prescribed and is taken in two doses; you and other household members should also receive treatment. An anti-itch cream is also recommended to provide relief.
Prevention
Good cleaning and hygiene habits are essential to preventing pinworm infection or reinfection. Daily bathing and consistent hand washing -- particularly after using the toilet -- are important for all family members. Sheets, towels and bathing cloths should be changed and cleaned often. Your child's exposure to this parasite is difficult to prevent at school or daycare, so instilling good hygiene habits -- including frequent hand washing and keeping nails short -- is necessary. Keep in mind that humans are the only hosts for this roundworm, so the family pet is not to blame for infection or reinfection.
