Infection control
To prevent the spread of a roundworm infection, always wash your hands thoroughly:
- after using the toilet
- after changing a nappy
- before preparing and eating food
Travel advice
You will need to take extra precautions when travelling to parts of the world where roundworm is widespread, sanitation is poor and the climate is hot.
Places where roundworm is particularly widespread include:
- Asia, in particular China, India and the large islands of East Asia, such as Indonesia
- sub-Saharan Africa (all the countries south of the Sahara Desert) such as Kenya or Nigeria
- South and Central America and the Caribbean
- the Middle East
If you are travelling to these parts of the world:
- Only drink bottled or boiled water.
- Do not eat raw fruit or vegetables.
- Wash your hands thoroughly if you come into contact with soil.
- Whenever possible, eat hot food that has been thoroughly cooked.
See the Health A-Z topic about Travel health and the Live Well page about Food and water abroad for more information and advice
