The mode of transmission for intestinal worms is through the fecal-oral route. Intestinal worms are transmitted when people come in contact with soil that has been contaminated with fecal matter from an infected person.
Since your husband is a mason who builds houses, it is likely that his bare feet have come in contact with the worm larvae and he got worms into his body.
- Another reason for infection is, if he eats contaminated food watered with water containing contaminated soil. E.g. Fruits and vegetables watered with water containing the contaminated soil.
- Geophagic activity such as directly eating contaminated soil can also be another reason for transmission but an unlikely mode of transmission in your husband’s case.
Whatever be the reason, it is better to get him treated for worms. Your doctor will prescribe a medicine which should be taken regularly till his condition is cured and also once after 6 months and once after a year to prevent recurrence of worms. I understand your paranoia but you don’t have to keep washing everything.
Just follow these simple hygiene tips as preventive measures:
- Wear shoes or slippers at all times, even in the bathroom.
- Clean toilet seat with an antiseptic like dettol before you use the toilet and each time after your husband has used the toilet.
- Wash hands with soap after using the latrine, after farming or gardening and before preparing or eating food.
- Wash all fruits and vegetables at least twice in clean water before cooking or eating it.
answered by P P