Health Tip: Preventing Pinworms

(HealthDay News) -- Many children are affected by pinworms, a thin worm usually found in the anal and buttock area, according to the St. Louis Childrens Hospital.

Parents can usually see the wiggling motion of the worm, especially in the early morning or at night. Another clue may be itching of the anal and buttock area.

Infection is caused by swallowing pinworm eggs, but parents can reduce the risk by having the child wash his hands after using the restroom and before eating. Fingernails should remain short so eggs can''t collect underneath them. Parents should also discourage thumb-sucking and eating food that has fallen on the floor. Children should be bathed each day, and their rooms and clothes should be cleaned to kill any present eggs.

-- Kimberly Sferruzzo

Last Updated: Oct. 13, 2005