Varieties of Parasitic Worms – Whipworms

Whipworm infections are extremely rare in the United States but occur in regions with poor sanitation. Learn to recognize symptoms like abdominal pain and diarrhea, understand transmission through contaminated food, and discover when to seek immediate medical care for proper diagnosis and treatment.

The whipworm, appropriately named for its distinctive whip-like shape¹, is a parasite that can infect both children and adults, and can even cause intestinal disease if not identified and treated properly. While these types of infections have been reported worldwide, they're overwhelmingly more prevalent in countries with warm, humid climates, high population density, and inadequate hygiene and sanitation standards. A whipworm infection in the United States is considered extremely rare indeed – but we understand that all parents want to be prepared when it comes to their family's health and wellbeing.

Here's our comprehensive guide on whipworms, including how to identify a worm infection and how to eliminate one. If, based on the information here, you believe your child or a family member might have contracted a whipworm infection, seek medical attention immediately.

Learn about the more common pinworm infections in children

How Are Whipworms Contracted?

Whipworm infections are transmitted through the feces of infected individuals, which contains eggs². The waste that is passed can also end up being used as fertilizer, especially in some countries where sanitation is inadequate – and if these food items aren't carefully washed, peeled, and cooked, the eggs or larvae can end up being consumed, which restarts the infection cycle all over again.

However, it's important to remember that whipworm infections are rare in the United States, and it's therefore unlikely that children in this region could contract such infections domestically.

Read about parasitic worms in humans

What Are the Symptoms of a Whipworm Infection?

A mild infection can have no signs or symptoms³ whatsoever; however, some people may experience abdominal pain, diarrhea, or anemia⁴. Those who contract a particularly severe infection can experience painful bowel movements, rectal problems, and even impaired cognitive development in children⁵.

Learn more about recognizing worm symptoms

How Can I Prevent Whipworm Infections?

Always teach children to wash their hands with soap and warm water before they handle food or put their fingers in their mouth. Teaching children the importance of staying away from fecal matter outdoors is also an excellent way to reduce the risk of contracting this infection – as rare as it may be in the United States. If you regularly eat fruits and vegetables that have been fertilized with manure, it's also essential to wash, peel, and cook them thoroughly and properly before eating.

Understand why family treatment is important

What Can I Do If I Think My Child Has a Whipworm Infection?

If you think your child or any other family member might have contracted whipworm, consult a healthcare professional immediately for additional treatment and guidance. Healthcare providers⁶ can normally diagnose whipworm from a stool sample, where they look for eggs using a microscope.

For treatment of whipworm infections, COMBANTRIN® Chocolate Squares 24 Pack may be recommended as part of a comprehensive treatment plan under medical supervision.