Treating PinwormsIs A Family Affair (NAPSA)—Warmer weather doesn’t just signal the return of picnics and family vacations. It also means it’s pinworm season. Pinworm is a highly contagious intestinal worm that infects 40 Sz million Americans each year. For- tunately, there are steps a parent can take to eliminate this annoying parasite. About % to % inch in length, the pinworm can exist year-round, particularly in climates that are warm and moist. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), pinworm infes- tation is twice as likely as having head lice. Preschoolers and schoolage children are particularly susceptible. Children in day care can also be at risk, as are other family members when one person in the family becomes infected. Getting Pinworms Touching or scratching the affected area transfers pinworm eggs to a person’s fingers. Placing fingers in the mouth introduces eggs into the intestinal system, where they can grow to become adult pinworms. Pinworm Symptoms Individuals who exhibit one or more of the following behaviors mayhavethe condition: * restlessness, difficulty sleeping and, for some, loss of appetite; * scratching of the perianal area; * an inability to get comfortable whensitting. Preventing Pinworms There are several simple steps that can help to prevent an outbreak: * bathe or showerfrequently; * frequently change and wash clothes and bedding; * wash hands regularly, especially after using the bathroom and before eating; Children in day care, preschoolers and school-age children are particularly susceptible to pinworm. * avoid nail biting, which helps keep handsoutof the mouth; keep your homeclean; discourage touching or scratching the bare anal area. Treatment Experts say the best way to eliminate pinwormsis to use an over-the-counter, FDA-approved pyrantel pamoate-based medica- tion, such as Reese’s Pinworm liquid or caplets, which are effective at eliminating pinworms— often with just one dose. Health care practitioners may suggest this as an alternative to prescription medications. The fact that pinwormsare contagious meansthatall family members need to be treated at the same time. To make that treatment more affordable, Reese’s medication is available in a large-size “family pack.” That means several family members can often be treated with a single package. The products can be found in many independent drugstores and most major drugstore chains. To learn more and get coupons, visit www.ReesePharmaceutical. com orcall (800) 321-7178.
