These worms multiply in the small intestine once ingested, causing: • Abdominal pain • Diarrhea for more than two weeks • Loss of appetite • Weight loss • Vomiting • Swelling of the body • Muscle wasting • Stomach growling

Capillariasis is diagnosed through a stool sample. It is treated by medications which are also used to treat other parasitic worm infections. These medications are given for 20 days for new cases and 30 days for relapse cases. Eggs and parasites disappear from the stool within 4 days, and symptoms disappear within a week of taking the medications.

Since the causative worm is food-borne, preventive measures focus on proper sanitation and food preparation: • Cook fish thoroughly before eating; • Avoid eating raw fish; • Use sanitary toilet for disposal of human waste; and • Wash hands with soap and warm water after touching or working with soil and before handling food.