Is Helicobacter pylori positivity in children transmitted by family members?

Children who are positive for helicobacter pylori may have been infected by family members. Helicobacter pylori infection is mainly transmitted through oral or fecal oral routes, and close contact between family members is a common route of transmission. The probability of Helicobacter pylori transmission within households is relatively high, especially when sharing utensils, kissing, or taking care of children without paying attention to hand hygiene. Children with underdeveloped immune systems are more susceptible to infection. After infection, symptoms such as abdominal pain, decreased appetite, and nausea may occur, but some children may not have obvious symptoms. If there are Helicobacter pylori infected family members, it is recommended that the entire family undergo screening and treatment. After diagnosis, children should receive standardized treatment under the guidance of a doctor. Common medications include omeprazole enteric coated capsules, amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium granules, clarithromycin tablets, etc. During treatment, attention should be paid to serving of individual dishes to avoid cross infection.

To prevent the family transmission of Helicobacter pylori, it is necessary to pay attention to tableware disinfection, avoid sharing tableware, and develop good hand washing habits. If family members have symptoms of indigestion, they should seek medical attention and examination in a timely manner. Children's diet should ensure a balanced nutrition, and supplementing probiotics appropriately can help maintain a balanced gut microbiota. Regular health check ups and timely treatment of infections can effectively block the transmission chain.