Pinworm infection

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Prevention

By Mayo Clinic staff

The best defense against pinworms is common sense and good hygiene. Follow these tips to avoid infection:

  • Practice good hygiene. Pinworm infections are most commonly spread by fingers contaminated with parasite eggs. To reduce your risk of getting or spreading an infection, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after a bowel movement, avoid scratching your anal area and keep your fingernails clean.
  • Keep your household clean. Because pinworm eggs can remain infective for several weeks on a surface, wash bedding and clean bathrooms regularly, and change your undergarments daily.

DS00687

Feb. 23, 2008

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