Which age group is most commonly affected by pinworm infections?

Pinworm infections, caused by the parasite Enterobius vermicularis, predominantly affect school-aged children. This age group is particularly susceptible due to several factors. Firstly, children in this age range often engage in close physical contact with one another, which enhances the spread of pinworm eggs. Additionally, they frequently put their hands in their mouths without proper hygiene practices, allowing the infection to enter their systems easily after contact with contaminated surfaces or directly from scratching the anal area where eggs can be present.

Moreover, the typical behavioral patterns of school-aged children—like sharing snacks, playing together, and using communal restrooms—further facilitate the transmission of the infection. Although pinworms can be found in individuals of any age, it is the school-aged demographic that shows the highest prevalence, as the conditions for infection are most common in those early years of social interaction and exploration.