Threadworm

Question 1

Threadworm - key symptoms (2)

Answer 1

Intense itching at night in the anus area
Thin white threads in underwear or stools

Question 2

Threadworm - extra questions (9)

Answer 2

Do they go to school
Signs of infection in the area
Vomitting and diarrhoea (weight loss)
Recent travels abroad
Vaginal discharge
Pregnant/breast feeding
Fever with bedwetting or pain when urinating
Do they want OTC treatment
Sleep disturbances

Question 3

Threadworm - risk factors (1)

Answer 3

Institutional settings

Question 4

Threadworm - explanation

Answer 4

Helminth worm infection of the intestine, very common and easily transmitted via feacal-oral route, worms lay eggs in perianal area

Question 5

Threadworm - first-line treatment (product, how it works, dose)

Answer 5

(not always required, 6 weeks of hygiene measures can be used instead)
Mebendazole (Ovex), an antithelmic that paralyses works, 100mg tab or 5 mL single dose
>2 years
Avoid in pregnant or brestfeeding
Repeat after 2 weeks
Treat household

Question 6

Threadworm - lifestyle (13) + how long for

Answer 6

2 weeks if OTC, 6 weeks if not
Still go to school
Wash clothes, bedding, towels at 60 degrees
Vacuum
Wash toys
Close fititng underwear
Shower each morning
Wash hands + fingernails after toilet and before food
Avoid hands in mouth
Avoid itching (gloves if needed)
Keep nails short
Avoid sharing towels
Cover open food

Question 7

Threadworm - referral (7)

Answer 7

<2 years
Pregnant or BF
Diarrhoea/vomitting > weight loss
Travels abroad
Vaginal discharge
Fever/bed wetting/pain
Bacterial infection from scratching