Mysore/Mysuru: A number of programmes is planned in various taluks and hoblis in the district as part of the National Deworming Campaign to be held from Sept. 7 to 21.

It is jointly organised by National Health Mission and District Health and Family Welfare, Government of Karnataka. This campaign aims at making every child in the country worm-free.

In view of non-opening of schools as per COVID-19 guidelines, deworming pill ‘Albendazole’ will be distributed to the children in the age group of 1-2 years and from 2-19 years (200 mg and 400 mg respectively), through ASHA and Anganwadi workers door to door, said Dr. Venkatesh, District Health Officer (DHO).

This, according to him, will enable the child’s body to absorb nutrients, vitamins and minerals easily. The deworming tablets help expel worms from the stomach and prevent any sort of infection. The worms which are transmitted through soil contaminated with faecal matter are called soil-transmitted helminths (Intestinal parasitic worms). 

Adult worms live in human intestines for food and survival and produce thousands of eggs each day. Eggs are passed in the faeces of infected person. 

Infected people who defecate outdoors spread worm eggs in the soil. Infections can lead to anemia, malnutrition, impaired mental and physical and cognitive development, and reduced school participation.

To whom it should not be given?

ASHA volunteers or junior Health Assistants must distribute the pill as per doctors’ suggestion. It should not be given to kids by force and to those who are ill. It should not be given at all to those children living in Corona Containment Zone. Emergency medical team must be ready to give treatment. Dial 104 for any medical assistance. Everyone must strictly follow COVID-19 guidelines, said Dr. Venkatesh.