4.5 Preventing parasitic infestations

Worms such as threadworms are common parasites and can be easily spread on toilet seats.

Good hygiene, including keeping fingernails short, are ways of preventing their spread. However, they can be tricky to eradicate. And in areas of the world where there is limited access to safe water and handwashing facilities, preventing and eradicating the spread of parasites such as worms is even more challenging.

The main way of preventing the spread of malaria is the use of mosquito nets which have been treated with insecticides. However, in low-income countries, obtaining insecticide treated bednets can be expensive.

Figure 5 Child in mosquito nets malaria can be prevented by avoiding mosquito bites

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A photograph of a child with a mosquito net over them

Figure 5 Child in mosquito nets malaria can be prevented by avoiding mosquito bites

This section has looked at some of the common conditions that can be passed on between humans. You have also been given an overview of some ways their spread can be reduced. In the following section (after a reflective activity), you will look at the causes and prevention of non-communicable health conditions.