threadworm, (Strongyloides stercoralis), worm of the phylum Nematoda that is parasitic in the human intestine but is able to live freely and breed in the soil. It is especially common in the moist tropics. Larvae are passed out of the host’s body in the feces.

Can you get Threadworms from the soil?

touching soil or swallowing water or food with worm eggs in it – mainly a risk in parts of the world without modern toilets or sewage systems. walking barefoot on soil containing worms – only a risk in parts of the world without modern toilets or sewage systems.

Can Threadworms live outside?

Also, threadworm eggs can survive for up to two weeks outside the body. They fall off the skin around the anus and can fall on to bedding, clothes, etc. They can then get wafted in the air as you change clothes, bedding, etc, and become part of the dust in a home.