threadworm (pinworm)
by catherine alderstein·
exclusion period
no exclusion required — the child can attend childcare
symptoms
- •itchy bottom, especially at night
- •visible small white thread-like worms in stools or around the anus
- •restless sleep
- •irritability
when can your child return to childcare?
no exclusion is required. the child can continue attending childcare. treatment should be given.
do siblings or contacts need to stay home?
no exclusion for contacts, but treat all household members
treatment notes for parents
treat with an over-the-counter worm tablet from the pharmacy (e.g. Combantrin). all household members should be treated at the same time, even without symptoms. wash bed linen and towels in hot water. keep fingernails short and encourage good hand hygiene.
view all exclusion periods
the complete illness-by-illness guide
this guide is for informational purposes only. exclusion periods are based on the NHMRC's Staying Healthy guidelines and were accurate at the time of writing. always consult your child's GP or childcare centre for specific advice. mini mode is not a medical service.