How long does it take for pinworm eggs to infect you?
Pinworm eggs become infective within a few hours after being deposited on the skin around the anus and can survive for 2 to 3 weeks on clothing, bedding, or other objects. People become infected, usually unknowingly, by swallowing (ingesting) infective pinworm eggs that are on fingers, under fingernails,...
Can pinworms come back after treatment?
It is important to remember that you must continue to treat for pinworms to avoid re-infestation. There is every possibility that you may be able to wipe out the adult pinworms, then their eggs will hatch and you're infested again. You need to maintain whatever regimen you follow long enough to kill the second "wave". Good hygiene must be observed.
What is the treatment for pinworm?
Pinworm can be treated with either prescription or over-the-counter medications. A health care provider should be consulted before treating a suspected case of pinworm infection. Treatment involves two doses of medication with the second dose being given 2 weeks after the first dose.
Is it possible to get pinworms twice?
It is important to remember that you must continue to treat for pinworms to avoid re-infestation. There is every possibility that you may be able to wipe out the adult pinworms, then their eggs will hatch and you're infested again. You need to maintain whatever regimen you follow long enough to kill the second "wave".
How long is pinworm contagious after treatment?
When and for how long is a person able to spread the disease? A person will remain infectious for as long as there are worms laying eggs on the skin around his or her rectum. Pinworm eggs can remain infectious in an indoor environment for two to three weeks.
How long do you have to clean after pinworms?
It is easy to be reinfected with pinworms or spread them to others. During treatment and for 2 weeks after treatment is finished, do the following: Hand washing is most important. Have your child and all family members wash their hands often.
How do you know if pinworms are gone?
Your doctor will give you some medicine to take right away and then again 2 weeks later to be sure the worms are gone. The doctor can also give you a cream to help stop the itching. Because it's easy to pass pinworms on to other people, the doctor may want the other people in your house to take medicine, too.
What happens after you take pinworm medicine?
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach/abdominal cramps, headache, drowsiness, dizziness, trouble sleeping, or loss of appetite may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
What Are The Symptoms of A Pinworm Infection?
Pinworm infection (called enterobiasis or oxyuriasis) causes itching around the anus which can lead to difficulty sleeping and restlessness. Sympto...
Who Is at Risk For Pinworm Infection?
Pinworm infection occurs worldwide and affects persons of all ages and socioeconomic levels. It is the most common worm infection in the United Sta...
How Is Pinworm Infection Spread?
Pinworm infection is spread by the fecal-oral route, that is by the transfer of infective pinworm eggs from the anus to someone’s mouth, either dir...
Can My Family Become Infected With Pinworms from Swimming Pools?
Pinworm infections are rarely spread through the use of swimming pools. Pinworm infections occur when a person swallows pinworm eggs picked up from...
My Little Kids Like to Co-Bathe – Could This Be How They Are Becoming infected?
During this treatment time and two weeks after final treatment, it is a good idea to avoid co-bathing and the reuse or sharing of washcloths. Showe...
Did My Pets Give Me Pinworms / Can I Give Pinworms to My Pets?
No. Humans are considered to be the only hosts of E. vermicularis which is also known as the human pinworm.
How Is Pinworm Infection Diagnosed?
Itching during the night in a child’s perianal area strongly suggests pinworm infection. Diagnosis is made by identifying the worm or its eggs. Wor...
How Is Pinworm Infection Treated?
Pinworm can be treated with either prescription or over-the-counter medications. A health care provider should be consulted before treating a suspe...
Should Family and Other Close Contacts of Someone With Pinworm Also Be Treated For Pinworm?
Yes. The infected person and all household contacts and caretakers of the infected person should be treated at the same time.
What Should Be Done If The Pinworm Infection Occurs Again?
Reinfection occurs easily. Prevention always should be discussed at the time of treatment. Good hand hygiene is the most effective means of prevent...