Parents across the UK are being urged to remain vigilant as demand for threadworm treatment has skyrocketed by 73% compared to the same period last year, indicating a significant spike in cases during February 2026. This common parasitic infection, particularly prevalent among children, poses a persistent threat due to its highly contagious nature and ability to cause reinfection even after initial treatment.
Understanding Threadworms and Their Spread
Threadworms, also known as pinworms, are tiny white parasitic worms that inhabit the large intestine and rectum. The infection spreads when a person accidentally ingests microscopic threadworm eggs, which can linger on contaminated surfaces such as toys, bedding, clothing, or hands for up to two weeks. This ease of transmission makes threadworms a frequent concern in households, nurseries, and schools, where close contact and shared environments facilitate rapid spread.
Five Key Symptoms to Monitor
According to the NHS, there are five primary symptoms of threadworm infection, some of which may be more noticeable at night or after using the bathroom. The most common sign is intensely itchy skin around the anus, especially during nighttime hours. Other symptoms include:
- Irritability or waking up frequently during the night
- Unexplained weight loss
- Bedwetting incidents
- Irritated skin around the anal area
- Visible small, white thread-like worms in a child's stool or around their bottom in the morning
Ian Budd, Lead Prescribing Pharmacist at Chemist4U, emphasised that these symptoms can often go unnoticed, making early detection crucial. He warned that even if only one family member shows signs, the entire household may need treatment due to the parasite's contagious nature.
Treatment and Prevention Strategies
Threadworm infections can be effectively treated without a GP appointment, with pharmacists able to provide guidance and medications. Common treatments include Ovex and Vermox, which contain mebendazole, an antiparasitic drug that kills the worms. However, as these medications do not eliminate the eggs, a second dose is typically required after two weeks to prevent reinfection.
Budd stressed the importance of combining medication with strict hygiene measures to break the cycle of infection. Key recommendations include:
- Washing hands thoroughly and regularly, especially after using the toilet and before eating
- Keeping fingernails short to prevent egg accumulation and transfer
- Changing underwear and bedding daily for at least two weeks, washing them on a hot cycle
- Cleaning household surfaces frequently to remove any lingering eggs
- Implementing a strict morning hygiene routine, including washing the anal area to remove eggs laid overnight
- Wearing close-fitting underwear at night to reduce scratching and egg spread
With prompt treatment and consistent adherence to these hygiene practices, threadworm infections can usually be cleared within a few weeks, helping to protect children and families from ongoing health issues.
