Playgrounds offer kids a safe place to enjoy the outdoors and play together. However, hidden parasites that you are unaware of may be lurking at the local park. One of the main places germs reside is in sandboxes.

According to a report on cbsnews.com, “Unlike playground equipment or plain dirt – places that are teeming with germs that are generally harmless to humans and can even help strengthen a child’s immune system – sandboxes are rife with parasitic germs that can cause severe infections including Baylisascariasis (raccoon roundworm), toxocariasis and toxoplasmosis.” (Amy Kraft, “Health Hazards Lurking in the Sandbox”).

Sandboxes attract animals such as feral cats, who often use them as litter boxes. The parasitic germs may then be transmitted to your child if he or she eats the sand from the box. It is highly recommended to avoid sandboxes, unless they are kept covered at night and cleaned out regularly. Some of the effects of these parasites may include headaches, coughing, pain in the abdominal region, behavioral or psychiatric problems, and sometimes no symptoms are displayed at all.

You can help protect your child on the playground. While it is difficult to protect against parasites if your child ingests sand, following good hygiene in general may eliminate other possible ailments. Prior to letting your child play on the equipment, wipe down the surfaces with a baby wipe or sanitizer wipe. After your child plays, ensure that he or she washes his or her hands with soap and water. If an injury occurs at the playground, such as a scraped knee, it is best to take care of it right away – have a small emergency kit on hand with bandages, alcohol pads and antibacterial ointment to keep germs at bay. Avoiding sandboxes and using good hygiene makes it more likely that you and your child will stay healthy and safe while enjoying the playground.