What is the primary method of prevention for hookworm infections?

The primary method of prevention for hookworm infections is wearing shoes. Hookworms are typically transmitted through contact with contaminated soil, particularly when individuals walk barefoot in areas where these parasites are endemic. The larvae can penetrate the skin, especially in the feet, leading to infection. By wearing shoes, individuals significantly reduce their risk of exposure to the larvae present in contaminated soils, thereby preventing hookworm infections effectively.

The other methods of prevention mentioned hold importance in different contexts or for other types of infections. Drinking only bottled water can help in preventing waterborne diseases but does not address the specific transmission route of hookworms. Regular handwashing is crucial for preventing a variety of infections, especially gastrointestinal ones, but again does not specifically target the transmission of hookworms. Avoiding raw vegetables is important for preventing infections from pathogens present in food but is unrelated to the soil transmission route of hookworms. Thus, wearing shoes directly addresses the mode of transmission for hookworm infections, making it the most effective preventive measure.