What Are the Treatments for Human Hookworms?

Hookworms are roundworm infestations that can occur in humans and animals. Hookworms are approximately a half inch long. More than a billion people worldwide have hookworms, but they are rare in the United States.

Symptoms

• Hookworm infestations can be asymptomatic, but symptoms such as itching, rash, fever, abdominal discomfort, cough, nausea, and vomiting may be present.

Transmission

• Hookworm larvae enter through the skin and then travel to the small intestine. Hookworms can be contracted by touching or walking barefoot in infected soil.

Treatment

• Medications that kill parasites, including mebendazole, albendazole, or pyrantel pamoate, are used to treat hookworm infestations.

Anemia

• Loss of blood by a hookworm infestation can cause anemia, or iron deficiency. Anemia can be treated by increasing protein consumption or through supplements.

Outlook

• Hookworm infestations can be easily treated if they are diagnosed before serious complications, such as nutritional deficiencies or severe protein loss, have developed.