Pin Worms in Children: A Common & Treatable Condition

Pinworms are the most common worm infection in the United States. Children are the most likely to get pin worms, and while these parasites are relatively harmless, pin worms in children and adults should be treated promptly.

Pin worms are small, white, thin roundworms that grow to the length of a staple. They are often described as looking like little pieces of white thread. These parasites live in the colon and rectum of children and adults. When an infected person falls asleep, female pinworms exit the body through the rectum and lay thousands of eggs around the anus. This egg-laying activity causes the main symptom of pin worms –intense itching around the anus–particularly during sleep, which results in sleeplessness and restlessness.

Children are often infected with pin worms in group settings such as classrooms, playgrounds, and child care centers. Pin worms are spread in one way, from the anus to the mouth. Since children typically do not wash their hands properly, pin worms are able to spread quickly where children touch shared items like toys, food, drinks, bedding, and other articles. Pin worms are not spread through pets.

If you suspect a case of pin worms in children, speak to your pediatrician. Pin worms in children can be treated with prescription or over-the-counter medication, but a pediatrician should always be consulted first. Since this parasite is contagious, family members may also want to be tested and treated for pin worm. You can prevent re-infection of pin worms by teaching children good hygiene habits like washing hands frequently and keeping fingernails short and clean.