What are Intestinal Worms & Parasites?
Intestinal worms & parasites live in the gastrointestinal tract. There are two main groups of intestinal worms – protozoa (organisms with one cell only) and helminths (worms with many cells). Protozoa multiplies in the human body. The most common protozoa include cryptosporidium, microsporidia and isospora that often affect HIV-infected persons. The most common helminths include tapeworm, hookworms, pinworms, roundworms, threadworms, whipworm and giardia. These parasites attack the body through the consumption of contaminated food and water, through the nose or skin, poor hygiene habits, sexual conduct or transmitting agents such as mosquitoes. Children tend to be very susceptible to intestinal worms but adults may also be affected.
