Worms
Hookworm and Roundworm are rare in Australia, but Threadworm is common, and often found in children. Threadworms live and breed in the digestive system, but don’t cause any serious medical problems. They are passed on by infected children transferring eggs from their bottom to fingers, then by fingers to mouth, or from soiled nightclothes.
- An itchy bottom, especially at night.
- Child may be irritable or restless.
- Poor appetite.
- Worms are sometimes visible in bowel motions (only if infestation is heavy).
- Sometimes visible while child is asleep, as they may emerge to hatch their eggs. Examine child’s bottom with a torch.
An easy one-dose treatment is available from your chemist. Treat the whole family to avoid re-infection, following the instructions on the packet carefully. It is not necessary to treat your child just in case they have worms.