Intestinal worms
Intestinal worms are parasites that live in the gut, such as roundworms, pinworms, hookworms, whipworms and tapeworms. They are very common in children in Afghanistan and spread through soil, unwashed hands, dirty water and undercooked meat. Worms can cause tummy pain, poor growth and anaemia, but they are easy to treat and prevent.
Symptoms
- Belly pain and bloating
- Poor appetite or constant hunger
- Weight loss or poor growth in children
- Itching around the bottom, especially at night (pinworms)
- Tiredness and pale skin from anaemia