Human whipworm (Trichuris trichiura, Trichocephalus trichiurus) is a nematode species, a parasite that lives in the caecum (less frequently in the large intestine) of a human. The whipworm has a filamentous body shape, it is 3-5 cm long. The front part of its body is much thinner than the back, almost like a hair, hence its name. It feeds mainly on blood, penetrating the intestinal mucosa. A characteristic feature of whipworms are eggs with bipolar protuberances at both ends. The invasion takes place by ingestion, after drinking water contaminated with eggs, eating unwashed fruit or vegetables. 

The infection is usually asymptomatic, however, with a large number of parasites the following may occur: lack of appetite, abdominal pain, mucous diarrhoea, sometimes with blood, weight loss, insomnia, neurosis, dizziness and headaches, anaemia and related symptoms (weakness, pale skin), allergic symptoms on the skin. In children, a whipworm infection additionally manifests itself in growth inhibition and delayed cognitive development. Personal hygiene must be observed to prevent infection. In addition, vegetables and fruits eaten raw must be washed thoroughly.