An effective preventive measure for pinworm infection is hand hygiene because pinworm eggs are typically transmitted via the fecal-oral route. After scratching the perianal area, eggs can contaminate the fingers and subsequently be ingested or spread to surfaces, increasing the risk of reinfection and transmission to others. Frequent handwashing with soap and water interrupts this cycle by removing eggs from the hands before they can be ingested. This simple practice is the cornerstone of controlling pinworm infections, especially in children. Other measures are supportive but do not directly prevent transmission like hand hygiene does.

Reference: Mims’ Medical Microbiology, Richard Goering, 6th Edition.