What is a key prevention method for hookworm transmission to humans?

A key prevention method for hookworm transmission to humans is avoiding fecal contamination of soil and ensuring proper sanitation. Hookworms primarily spread through contaminated soil where the larvae can survive and become infectious. Humans, especially children, can become infected by walking barefoot on contaminated soil or through skin contact with the contaminated ground. Therefore, maintaining sanitary practices, such as ensuring that pets are regularly dewormed and that feces are promptly cleaned up, significantly reduces the risk of transmission. This approach is central to controlling the lifecycle of hookworms and preventing their spread to humans, making it an effective prevention method.

While avoiding contact with contaminated food, using flea and tick prevention on pets, and wearing shoes outdoors may have their own merits in preventing various infections or infestations, they do not directly address the specific route of transmission associated with hookworms.