This post is sponsored by Reese, but opinions expressed are my own! I only work with and share brands I know and love.
Pinworms are a scary thought for most parents, but treating pinworms effectively is simple and there are some things you can do to prevent pinworms in your home.
One of the most surprising aspects of parenting has been how many squeamish moments I’ve had since welcoming my first child into the world. From diaper explosions to school notices about lice, there is a lot that leaves me squirming, but while many of these things are gross – they are also harmless and easy to fix.
Recently, I learned about pinworms for the first time and I think my eyes grew twice their size.
I knew nothing about pinworms beyond what I’ve seen on medical dramas, so while completely grossed out, I knew I had to get the facts and figure out how to treat pinworms if one of my kids was diagnosed with them.
What are Pinworms and How do I treat Pinworms?
Pinworm is an intestinal infection caused by a tiny, white, highly contagious intestinal worm (Enterobius Vermicularis) that looks like a thread and measures about 1/2″ in length.
They occur most commonly among school-aged and preschool-aged children, as well as their family members and caretakers, and affect people of all ages and socioeconomic levels.
You ready to get really squeamish? According to the CDC website, pinworms are contracted “by putting anyone’s contaminated hands (including one’s own) around the mouth area or putting one’s mouth on common contaminated surfaces, a person can ingest pinworm eggs and become infected with the pinworm parasite. Since pinworm eggs are so small, it is possible to ingest them while breathing.”
WHILE BREATHING, people.
Contracting pinworms does not mean that you, your child, your house, or your school are unsanitary.
While pinworms are gross, they are harmless and easy to treat.
While researching, I came across Reese’s Pinworm Medicine. It’s safe and effective – with just a single dose, and is up to a 95% savings in comparison to prescription pinworm medicine. It takes about 72 hours to rid the digestive system of pinworms.
You can use Reese’s Pinworm Medicine in conjunction with Reese’s Pinworm Itch Relief Wipes, which provide itch relief while the pinworm medicine is taking effect.
How to Avoid Pinworms
After treating pinworms – or to do your best to avoid them in the first place (although they can still come into contact with them at school or just about any public place), there are a few preventative measures you can take:
- Bathe daily
- Wash and change underwear, sleepwear, toys and bedding
- Keep your hands clean, wash thoroughly – especially after using the toilet and before eating
- Maintain trimmed fingernails, keep them short, leaving pinworms no place to hide.
- Strongly discourage nail biting
- Avoid touching, scratching bare anal areas
- For several days after treatment, clean the bedroom floor by vacuuming or damp mopping.
- Following pinworm treatment, wash bed linens and pajamas.
- Disinfect toilet seats and keep them clean
Check out this resource for more tips to get rid of pinworms in the home.
Pinworms can be gross, but there are safe and effective things you can do to treat and prevent them going forward. Don’t feel embarrassed – pinworms can happen to anyone!
If you have any tips on how to prevent pinworms, please share in the comments below!
