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Worm Infestation in Children
Intestinal worms are common in children, especially where sanitation is limited. They can cause tummy upset and anaemia, but are easily treated with deworming medicine.
Causes & risk factors
- Swallowing worm eggs from contaminated food, water or soil
- Walking barefoot on contaminated ground (hookworm)
- Poor hand hygiene, especially before eating
- Threadworm passing easily between children
Common symptoms
- Itching around the bottom, worse at night (threadworm)
- Tummy pain
- Nausea
- Poor appetite or poor weight gain
- Tiredness (from anaemia)
- Worms visible in the stool
Tests & diagnosis
- Stool test for eggs or worms
- Complete blood count (CBC)
- Haemoglobin (anaemia)
Treatment & management
- Deworming medicine as prescribed — dose is weight/age-based, confirm with a doctor
- Treat all family members for threadworm at the same time when advised
- Wash hands well, keep nails short and wash bedding
- Use clean water and wash fruits and vegetables
- Wear footwear outdoors
When to see a doctor urgently
- Severe tummy pain or persistent vomiting — get seen
- Blood in the stool
- Marked tiredness or pallor (possible anaemia)
- Symptoms not clearing after deworming
Frequently asked questions
Should children be dewormed regularly?
In areas where worms are common, routine deworming of children is recommended, often twice a year. Ask your paediatrician about the schedule appropriate for your child.
How do I stop worms coming back?
Good hygiene is key: handwashing before meals and after the toilet, short clean nails, wearing footwear, and using clean water and well-washed food.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.