My 27-month-old son was diagnosed with pinworms. Two days before
that he had been playing in a mud puddle in his sandals, and the
next day we saw pinworms in the shallow end of the puddle. Where
do pinworms come from? Is there any way to kill them or at least
help prevent reinfection of worms from the outside? (I
understand the importance of handwashing.) Also, when we as a
family were treated, the prescription information stated that
the linens in the house and toilets/baths needed to be changed
or cleaned daily. . . for how long? Pinworms are very small
white worms that are typically seen in the morning around kids'
bottoms, particularly the anal opening, and cause itching and
irritation. They do not cause teeth grinding, bedwetting, weight
loss, or hair loss as some old wives' tales suggest. In general,
kids get pinworms from other kids or adults where there is fecal
soiling of the hands, usually invisible but related to
incomplete handwashing. Shared bedding, toys, and clothing can
also be a route. Kids s