Myths and facts
MYTH - Only dirty people get Threadworms!
FACT - Whilst poor hygiene habits can contribute to the spread of Threadworms once you have contracted it, catching Threadworms can be as simple as touching an infected surface - it doesn't matter how clean you are.
MYTH - Only children get Threadworms - I'll never need to treat myself or my partner!
FACT - It is true that Threadworms are more commonly associated with young children. This is basically because of their close social interaction and generally less entrenched patterns of personal hygiene (hand washing etc.) which contribute to rapid transfer of the infection. However, Threadworms are highly contagious. If suspected, ALL household members - including Mum and Dad - should be treated at the same time.
MYTH - Taking a worming product will protect my family from getting Threadworms!
FACT - Worming products work only on the adult worms present in the intestine at the time the medicine is taken. This is why it is so important to give your home a thorough clean after treatment, to kill any remaining eggs and help prevent reinfestation. For more information, see All About Threadworms
MYTH - You can catch Threadworms from household pets!
FACT - Threadworms are human host specific - that is, they will not survive in the intestine of household pets, so dogs and cats cannot be part of the Threadworm lifecycle. However, it is still possible to contract Threadworms from eggs stuck to the fur of cats and dogs.
Whilst domestic pets do not play a large role in the transfer of Threadworms to humans, other types of worms can be caught from your pets. Animals can have their own form of "animal specific" Roundworms, Hookworms and Whipworms which may be passed on through the pet's poo when a child
- Touches or eats a pet’s poo;
- Puts something in their mouth after the pet as had it in their mouth;
- Has their face licked by their pet.
It is important to consult your vet to help protect your pet against worms. If you suspect your child has another infection other than Threadworms, please see your doctor for treatment.
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