Contagiousness Ascariasis is not spread directly from one person to another. To become infected, an individual has to consume the worms eggs. Prevention The most important measure of protection against ascariasis is the safe and sanitary disposal of human waste, which can transmit eggs.
Areas of the world that use human feaces as fertilizer must thoroughly cook all foods or clean them with a proper iodine solution (particularly fruits and vegetables)" Kids who live in underdeveloped areas of the world may be prescribed a preventive deworming medication.
These practices are recommended for all children:
* Try as much as possible to keep kids from putting things in their mouths.
* Teach kids to wash hands thoroughly and frequently, especially after using the bathroom and before eating.
Professional Treatment: The doctor will usually prescribe antiparasitic medication to be taken orally to kill the intestinal roundworms. Sometimes the stool will be re-examined about 3 weeks after treatment to check for eggs and worms.
Symptoms: usually disappear within 1 week of starting treatment. Very rarely, surgical removal of the worms may be necessary (particularly in cases of intestinal or liver related obstruction, or abdominal infection). A child who has ascariasis should be evaluated for other intestinal parasites, such as pinworm. Home Treatment If your child has ascariasis, the medication prescribed . should be administered accordingly.
To prevent reinfection
* Ensure that your child washes his or her hands properly, particularly after using the bathroom and before eating.
* Have your pets checked for worms regularly.
* Keep your childs fingernails short and clean.
* Sterilize any contaminated clothing, pyjamas, and bedding.
* Evaluate the source of the infection.
Additional sanitation measures in or around your home may be necessary. When to Call the Doctor If your child has any of the symptoms of ascariasis" contact your doctor right away. Stool samples will be sent to a laboratory to check for eggs and worms and confirm the diagnosis. Call the doctor if symptoms do not improve with treatment or if new symptoms occur.
This article was culled from the publications of Deen Communication Limited