Q:

If I do not have symptoms can I get treated for worms? I was just in Peru and Argentina, and I am afraid I may have contracted worms. I know there are lots of different kinds, but could I just treat for all of them? I was researching on line, and they are SO common....

 

A:

It is rare for travelers to become infected with worms unless they have been in high risk environments for six months or longer. Testing stool samples, even in asymptomatic people with high risk exposures, could be done if it has been at least 6 - 12 weeks since the exposure. It can take at least that long for adult worms to develop and shed eggs. Medications generally work best on adult worms. Most species of worms also are cleared from an infected person without treatment if there is not continued high risk exposure.

It would be a good idea to get help assessing your risk and concerns from a doctor experienced with travel diseases. If you are a registered student at WWU, you can make an appointment for this by calling 650-3400.

~The Doc