How Do You Get Worms?
Worm infections in humans are usually caused by intestinal parasites known as helminths. The most common types include threadworms, roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms. Understanding how these worms spread is the first step to preventing infection.
The primary route of infection is the fecal-oral route. Microscopic worm eggs from contaminated feces end up on hands, surfaces, food, or water and are then accidentally swallowed. Children are especially vulnerable because of hand-to-mouth behavior and close contact in schools or childcare settings.
According to the NHS, worms are mainly spread in small bits of poo from people with a worm infection. Some infections are also caught from food, such as undercooked meat or unwashed vegetables.
Ingesting microscopic worm eggs from contaminated feces (fecal-oral route).
Threadworms (pinworms), roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms.
Intense anal itching, especially at night.
Over-the-counter or prescription anthelmintic medication (e.g., mebendazole).
Key Insights About Worm Infections
- Worm infections are extremely common worldwide, especially in children.
- The most common route of infection is the fecal-oral route — swallowing eggs transferred from contaminated surfaces to hands to mouth.
- Threadworms can cause intense anal itching, but the infection is generally mild and easily treatable.
- Hygiene measures such as handwashing, showering, and washing bedding are critical to prevent reinfection and spread within households.
| Question | Fact |
|---|---|
| How common are worms in humans? | Threadworms are the most common worm infection in the UK and US, particularly in school-age children. |
| How do you get them? | By accidentally swallowing worm eggs from contaminated food, water, surfaces, or direct contact with infected feces. |
| Are they serious? | Most worm infections are mild and treatable, but some (like hookworm or tapeworm) can cause nutritional deficiencies. |
| Can kids get them? | Yes, children are the most affected group due to close contact and lower hygiene awareness. |
What Are the Symptoms of Worms in Humans?
Symptoms vary depending on the type of worm and the severity of the infection. Many people with light infections experience no symptoms at all.
Pinworm and Threadworm Symptoms
The most common symptom of pinworm infection is intense itching around the anus, especially at night. Children may also become irritable or show behavioral changes. The itching is caused by female worms moving to the anal area to lay eggs.
Heavy infections with roundworm or other soil-transmitted helminths can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, weakness, malnutrition, and impaired growth in children. In very severe cases, intestinal obstruction can occur, which may require surgical treatment.
Symptoms in Adults
Adults can also be infected, especially through contaminated food, water, soil, or undercooked animal products. Abdominal discomfort, unexplained fatigue, or visible worms in stool may be signs of infection. The Healthdirect Australia notes that threadworms are acquired by ingesting eggs, and humans are the only host.
How to Get Rid of Worms in Humans
Treatment Options
Worming tablets (anthelmintics) are the standard treatment for common worm infections. Depending on the country, some medications are available over the counter at pharmacies. For pinworms, it is usually recommended that the entire household be treated at the same time to prevent reinfection.
If symptoms persist or the diagnosis is uncertain, medical evaluation is recommended. In severe soil-transmitted infections, treatment may require medical care, and intestinal obstruction from very heavy infection can require surgery.
After treatment, wash all bedding, underwear, and towels on a hot cycle. Encourage morning bathing to remove eggs laid overnight. Keep children’s fingernails short and discourage scratching or nail-biting.
Prevention Measures
- Wash hands thoroughly after using the toilet, after changing diapers, after touching soil, and before eating or preparing food.
- Wash fruit and vegetables well; peel or cook them when appropriate.
- Cook meat and fish thoroughly to kill any parasites.
- Avoid walking barefoot in areas where soil may be contaminated with human feces.
- Keep fingernails short and avoid fingernail-to-mouth behaviors in children.
- Deworm pets regularly and dispose of pet feces promptly.
What Is the Timeline from Infection to Symptoms?
- Ingest worm eggs.
- Eggs hatch in the small intestine.
- Larvae mature and travel to the colon.
- Adult female worms migrate to anus to lay eggs (usually at night).
- First symptoms appear: anal itching, irritability.
- Eggs become infective, ready to spread to others or cause autoinfection.
Can You Get Worms from Pets? What About Adults?
| Established Information | Information That Remains Unclear |
|---|---|
| Threadworms are human-specific and are not spread by pets. | It is possible to get other parasites, like roundworms, from dogs or cats if you accidentally ingest their eggs, but this is less common. |
| Adults can get worms, though less frequently than children. Adults in households with infected children are at higher risk. | Whether an adult’s immune system clears mild infections without treatment is not well documented. |
| Some worms are visible in stool (e.g., threadworms up to 1 cm). Heavier infections may show larger worms. | Absence of visible worms does not rule out infection; eggs may be present without visible adults. |
Why Are Worm Infections So Common?
Worm infections are a classic example of a disease spread through poor sanitation and hygiene. In developed countries, threadworm is the only common type, and it spreads easily in schools and families. Public health advice focuses on breaking the fecal-oral transmission cycle through handwashing, cleaning surfaces, and treating all household members simultaneously.
Globally, soil-transmitted helminths affect hundreds of millions of people, especially in areas with inadequate access to clean water and sanitation. The World Health Organization reports that periodic deworming of at-risk groups is recommended in endemic regions.
What Do Official Health Sources Say?
“Worms are mainly spread in small bits of poo from people with a worm infection. Some are caught from food.”
— NHS
“Most people get intestinal parasites by ingesting eggs that get passed along through contaminated food, water or soil.”
“Threadworms are usually acquired by ingesting (eating) the eggs. Humans are the only host of threadworms.”
— Healthdirect Australia
What Should You Do If You Suspect a Worm Infection?
If you suspect a worm infection, consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis, which may involve a stool sample or tape test. Treat promptly with over-the-counter or prescription medication and follow strict hygiene rules for several weeks to prevent reinfection. Treat all household members if pinworm is confirmed. For more on related health topics, see 10 Causes of UTI in Females and How to Check for a Blood Clot in Your Leg.
Frequently Asked Questions About Worms in Humans
Can you get worms from swimming?
Rare for threadworms, but possible if you swallow contaminated water (e.g., in lakes or pools with poor hygiene).
Do worms go away on their own?
Some infections may clear naturally, but treatment is recommended to prevent spread and complications.
Can you get worms from food?
Yes, especially undercooked meat (tapeworms) or unwashed fruits/vegetables (roundworms).
How long does it take to get rid of worms?
Treatment usually kills worms within 1–2 weeks. Hygiene measures are needed to prevent reinfection.
Are worms in humans a serious problem?
Most cases are mild and treatable, but heavy infections can lead to nutritional problems, especially in children.
Can adults get worms from children?
Yes, adults in close contact with infected children are at higher risk, especially with threadworms.
Should I wash bedding after treatment?
Yes, washing bedding, underwear, and towels on a hot cycle helps remove eggs and prevent reinfection.
Thomas Ellery is Business & Companies Editor at MarketUK.uk, covering UK company news, corporate updates, retail, startups, SMEs and business strategy.