Question

As we learned in Chapter 1, an ideally designed body would be free from disease (Tamparo, 2016). Advances in medical technology is quickly identifying new illnesses, diseases, and disorders, as well as developing new treatments and cures. The body is affected by five main types of microorganisms. Identify one that generates the most interest to you and explain what it is, what type of infection/disease/illness is caused by this microorganism, and what types of treatments are available to those affected with it. Explore the internet and find credible sources to find something not already mentioned in the textbook, perhaps a picture, new findings, or diagnostic methods.

Answer 1

A variety of microorganisms can cause disease. Pathogenic organisms are of five main types: viruses, bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and worms. These organisms can affect the health.

Lets see more about worms.

Worms causing infection in people are parasites that live and breed mostly in the bowel (intestine). The most common worm in is the threadworm, Enterobius vermicularis, sometimes called the pinworm. Infection with other worms such as roundworms, hookworms and tapeworms is less common.

Threadworm infections and managment

Threadworms are White in color, small and thread shaped worms 2 to 13 mm long. They are most common in children, but anyone of any age can be affected. They are not fussy about who they infect and having them does not reflect on the hygiene of a child’s home.

The worms spread once the person swallows its egg. it hatches in the bowel and it comes out through the bottom to lay eggs during night time. if the hands are not washed after going toilet can spread the disease. the eggs can enters into other people and can cause infection.

signs and symptoms:  itchy bottom, irritability and behavioural changes, but most people have no symptoms.

diagnosis of the disease: The worms can be seen in freshly passed stools. night time bottom exam can reveal the presence of worm, sticky tape test-tape can be examined under microscope to reveal the presence of eggs.

Treatment: a single dose of medication can help to kill the worms and eggs. but the family members all have to take the medicine at the same day.

Prevention

• Exclusion of people with worms from childcare, preschool, school and work is usually not necessary. If there are loose bowel motions, exclusion should be for 24 hours after the diarrhoea has ceased.
• Make sure children wash their hands after using the toilet and before eating.
• Parents should seek medical treatment for infected children.
• Change bed linen and underwear daily for several days after treatment. Normal hot water washing of clothes and bed linen will kill threadworm eggs.
• Clean toilet seats and potties regularly.
• Keep children’s fingernails short.