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KEy FACTS

Soil-Transmitted Helminth Infections

  • Soil-transmitted helminth infections are caused by different species of parasitic worms.

  • They are transmitted by eggs present in human faeces, which contaminate the soil in areas where sanitation is poor.

  • Approximately two billion people are infected with soil-transmitted helminths worldwide.

  • Infected children are physically, nutritionally and cognitively impaired.

  • Control is based on:

    • periodical deworming to eliminate infecting worms

    • health education to prevent reinfection

    • improved sanitation to reduce soil contamination with infective eggs.

  • Safe and effective medicines are available to control infection.

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