Worm Diseases in Kids and how to avoid them

Worm diseases are caused by parasites which are microorganisms that can enter the body, and cause disease in both children and adults, resulting in symptoms such as constant abdominal pain, bloated belly sensation, and appetite, etc. Giardiasis, enterobiasis, and hookworm are some of the most frequent worms, and to avoid them it is important to always wash your hands before eating, and after using the bathroom, drink filtered water and avoid walking barefoot.

This way it is possible not only to prevent worms but also diseases caused by fungi, viruses or bacteria.

How do worms arise?

Worm transmission is linked to hygiene conditions such as poor sanitation. The main form of contagion is oral which explains the high number of cases in young children since little ones often put their hands in their mouths all the time. In addition, some foods may be contaminated with parasite eggs and, if not properly sanitized, also favor the appearance of parasites.

There are also animals that can be vectors such as snails that transmit schistosomiasis. Pets such as cats and dogs can also be vectors. To prevent contagion, it is important that the animal eats de-wormed at the appropriate frequency from the veterinarian, and that the child never has access to the space in which pets poop – parasites can penetrate the child’s skin, and cause irritation. Inflammation, which can reach the lungs and eyes.

7 measures to prevent major worm diseases

Parasites can enter the body in a number of ways: through eating contaminated food or water, raw or under-cooked food, skin and mosquito bites, for example. Thus, to prevent parasites from entering the body it is important to:

• Wash your hands after using the toilet and keep it under proper hygiene since parasite eggs are usually found in feces – see how to wash your hands properly
• Avoid walking barefoot, as some parasites, such as hookworm, for example, which causes yellowing; enter the body through the skin;
• Cut and keep nails clean to prevent dirt accumulation and possible parasite eggs
• Drink filtered, boiled or disinfected water with Sodium Hypochlorite to eliminate potential contaminants
• Wash and cook food well, as they may be contaminated
• Wash hands before meals to eliminate any disease-causing microorganism
• Wash household utensils with drinking water.

In addition, it is important to verify the sanitary conditions of the inhabited place, as poor sanitary conditions may increase the chances of having worms.