Pinworm Sources Courses

Pinworms, otherwise known as Enterobius vermicularis, are small parasitic worms common in both children and adults. They are the most common type of intestinal worm infection in the United States. Pinworms are transmitted via the fecal-oral route, meaning they are passed from person to person when an individual ingests eggs from another person who has pinworms. Common sources of pinworm infection include: • Food: Eating food that has come into contact with an infected person’s hands is one way to ingest pinworm eggs. • Water: Consuming contaminated water that contains the pinworm eggs can result in an infection. • Fingernails: Pinworms can live on under nails. If an individual scratches an infected area and then eats a food item without washing their hands, they can ingest pinworm eggs. • Contaminated objects: Infected objects, such as toys, clothes, and bedding, that come into contact with fecal particles containing pinworm eggs can be a potential source of infection. • Animals: Some animals, such as dogs, cats, sheep and pigs, can also be sources of infection, as they too can become infected with pinworms. To prevent pinworm infection, it is important to maintain good hygiene. Hands should be washed often and kept away from the infected areas. Bedding and clothing should be washed frequently in hot water and food should be cooked thoroughly. Moreover, it is important to tell your healthcare provider immediately if you suspect you may have pinworms.