Diseases
hookworm
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Hookworms are parasites that live in the intestines of infected people. Hookworm eggs (larvae) spread in the feces (poop) of people with hookworm disease. Many people have no symptoms, but signs of a hookworm infection include skin rash, fever, stomach pain and diarrhea.
Symptoms
- fever
- skin rash on the feet where the larvae entered the body.
- abdominal pain.
- loss of appetite.
- coughing or wheezing.
Causes
- hookworm larvae pass in the feces (poop) of someone already infected with hookworm disease. if a person with hookworm disease poops outdoors, the larvae enter the soil.
Risk factors
- hookworm infection is mainly acquired by walking barefoot on contaminated soil.
Diagnosis
- blood tests.
- stool studies.
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is hookworm?
Hookworms are parasites that live in the intestines of infected people. Hookworm eggs (larvae) spread in the feces (poop) of people with hookworm disease. Many people have no symptoms, but signs of a hookworm infection include skin rash, fever, stomach pain and diarrhea.
What are the symptoms of hookworm?
fever, skin rash on the feet where the larvae entered the body., abdominal pain., loss of appetite., coughing or wheezing.
What causes hookworm?
hookworm larvae pass in the feces (poop) of someone already infected with hookworm disease. if a person with hookworm disease poops outdoors, the larvae enter the soil.
Which medicines are used for hookworm?
flubendazole, levamisole, mebendazole
Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app
Open the complete reference, check multi-drug interactions and use dosing tools in the MediHelp app.