Thread worms
This is the most common type of infecting worm. These thin, 6mm ( ¼ in) long white worms live in the rectum and the females crawl through the anus to lay their eggs on the surrounding skin.
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This produces the classic symptoms of itching, especially at night. When your child scratches his bottom he may pick up some of the eggs under his fingernails. If he then puts his hand in his mouth the eggs will be ingested again.
What to do
If you notice your child scratching his bottom, especially at night, save your child's stools and examine them for the thread-like worms. If you find them, get medical advice. Medicine to eradicate the worms is available from your pharmacist over the counter, and because worm infection spreads easily to other members of the family everyone should be given the treatment. Keep your child's nails short, and make sure he washes his hands after going to the lavatory.
New Babycare
Copyright © 2009 Dorling Kindersley
Text copyright © 2009 Miriam Stoppard
Posted 03.11.2010
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