Threadworms are quite easy to treat. However, in order to get rid of the worms completely, your entire family must be treated, even if they do not have any specific symptoms. The infection is contagious and the risk of spreading is very high.
The aim is to eliminate the threadworms and prevent further infection. This can be done by taking a combination of medicines to kill the worms and following strict hygiene measures to stop the spread of the eggs.
One of the most commonly used medicines for treating threadworm is Mebendazole (Ovex), which is available at PharmacyOutlet without a prescription. Although it is available over-the-counter, it is imperative to seek medical help, especially if your child has threadworms and he/she is under two years of age.
This threadworm treatment is found to be 90-100% effective. It works by stopping the worms from being able to absorb glucose (sugar) that is essential for them to survive. Their energy source is depleted and they eventually die within a few days of treatment. Usually, a single dose is enough to kill the worms. However, you can take the second dose two weeks after the previous dose if the infection recurs.
Strict hygiene measures can treat and prevent a threadworm infection. The lifespan of the worms is nearly six weeks; hence, it is essential to follow certain hygienic measures, which are as follows:
- Wash all your clothes, towels, bed linen and your child’s soft toys
- Dust your whole house and pay specific attention to the bedrooms
- Avoid eating food in the bedroom
- Keep your nails short and scrub your fingernails
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water
- Bathe or shower regularly
- Do not share towels, make sure everyone in your house has their own towel and flannel
Children are vulnerable to pick up threadworm infection easily, especially at school or from friends, so maintaining good hygiene is important for them to help prevent the infection.
You should take extra care of a child who is under two years of age. Please note that Mebendazole is not advised for use in kids below two years of age. Ask your GP about the threadworm treatment in children below two years of age.