threadworms

• Threadworms

  • White thread like worms in the faeces
  • Extreme itching around the anus/vagina (worse at night)
• Associated symptoms of threadworms

  • Anal itching
  • Wetting the bed
  • Weight loss
• Cause of threadworms

  • Spread via faecal oral transmission
  • Threadworm eggs are swallowed/ ingested (spread from under the child's nails after scratching bottom)
  • Eggs are laid around the anus - this makes the anus itchy
• REFER for threadworms

  > Under 2yrs old

  > Pregnant/Breastfeeding

  >Recent travel abroad

  >Failed OTC treatment

  > Yellow/weeping discharge from the anus - secondary bacterial infection due to scratching/broken skin
• Treatment pathway for threadworms

  > MEBENDAZOLE (Ovex) 2yrs+, single dose can be repeated after 14 days if reinfection is suspected.

  >Treat ALL household members at the same time!!!

  > tablets can be chewed, crushed or swallowed whole
• Metronidazole and cimetidine interact with mebendazole - avoid
• Threadworm counselling

  > Treat all members of HOUSEHOLD at the same time

  >Encourage children & affected Patient to wash hands regularly before meals/ toilet and scrub under the finger nails

  >Keep fingernails short

  >Wash sleepwear, sheets, towels and soft toys (at normal temperature)

  >Disinfect kitchen and bathroom surfaces

  >Vacuum and dust with a damp cloth (avoid spreading eggs into the air)

  > children MUST wear underwear at night and change it in the morning