Introduction

Hookworms are parasitic worms that can infect humans in countries with poor sanitation and a warm, moist climate.

The hookworm larvae (immature worms) are found in soil that's been contaminated with human faeces. The larvaecan infect people if their bare skin comes intocontact with the soil for example, if you're walking barefoot.

Most hookworm infections occur in Africa, the Americas, China andsoutheast Asia.

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 29 Nov 2016