how do you get threadworms

Threadworms, also known as pinworms, are tiny, thin white worms that infect the intestines. You get threadworms by accidentally swallowing their eggs, which are laid around the anus by female worms, typically at night. The eggs cause itching, and when you scratch the itchy area, the eggs get on your fingers and under your nails. These eggs can then be transferred to your mouth either directly from your hands or indirectly by touching contaminated surfaces like toys, bedding, clothes, or kitchen utensils, and then touching your mouth or food. This ingestion of eggs restarts the cycle of infection. Threadworm eggs can also survive on surfaces for up to two weeks. This route of transmission explains why threadworm infection is highly contagious, especially among children and within families where hygiene is not carefully maintained. Good handwashing and hygiene practices are crucial to preventing spread.