(HealthDay News) -- Pinworms are intestinal worms that may be easily spread and are common in children.
The Mayo Clinic recommends these tips to help prevent pinworm infections or keep them from spreading:
- Shower in the morning and carefully wash the anal area, as pinworms lay eggs while the infected person sleeps.
- To help get rid of eggs, change the sheets and the infected person's underwear each day.
- Wash all clothing, towels, washcloths and sheets in hot water.
- Don't scratch the anal area. Trim an infected child's fingernails to reduce the risk of eggs collecting. Make sure the child doesn't bite his or her nails.
- Clean all toilet seats every day to help get rid of eggs.
- Always wash hands after using the toilet, changing a diaper and before eating.
