Deworming is the process of eliminating parasitic worms from the body and is essential due to the prevalence of various worm infections worldwide. 

A practice once often associated with livestock, deworming in humans is equally crucial, safeguarding individuals from a range of parasitic infections.

These infections are caused by different organisms such as roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms, which can lead to severe health complications if left untreated. Hence, periodic deworming is recommended to mitigate the risk of infection and maintain overall well-being.

How often should you deworm?

The frequency of deworming largely depends on several factors, including age, lifestyle, geographical location, and individual health status—especially if you suffer from helminthophobia (a morbid fear of worms).

For some healthcare experts, a common recommendation is to undergo deworming at least once or twice a year.

This frequency helps break the cycle of infection and minimise the burden of parasitic worms on the body, though in rare cases, more frequent deworming may be necessary, as a doctor advises.

Children who attend school are at higher risk of contracting parasitic worms, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO) which stated: “[We] recommend treating all school children at regular intervals with deworming drugs in areas where helminth infection is common. Global advocacy organisations claim routine deworming has substantive health and societal effects beyond the removal of worms.”

How to deworm

Zentel and Benjamins are popular de-worming brands available in capsule and liquid forms.

There are also natural alternatives to consider in ensure the body is parasite-free, such as turmeric, garlic, cloves, unripe papaya, neem and pumpkin seeds.

Signs you may have worms include but are not limited to:

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhoea
• Vomiting and nausea
• Abdominal bloating
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue
• Abdominal tenderness 

Types of parasites

Understanding the types of worms and their modes of transmission is vital in implementing effective preventive measures. Roundworms, for instance, are typically contracted through ingesting contaminated food or water, while hookworm infections occur through skin contact with contaminated soil.

Tapeworms, on the other hand, are often contracted by consuming undercooked or raw meat containing tapeworm larvae.