By: Cheryl M. Luis
January and July this year are the national deworming month, declared by the Department of Health (DOH).
The goals of DOH are to eliminate intestinal parasitism among children. A synchronized schedule of mass drug administration for STH is done in schools and the community.
Soil-transmitted Helminthiasis is considered a public health concern by the health sectors because of its effects on the growth and development of a child.
Parasitic worms can lead to malnutrition. Their larvae are generally found in contaminated food and water in poor communities or areas where cleaning does not frequently happen.
Those who walk without wearing any socks or shoes in high-risk areas are most likely to contract worms. Also, younger kids are prone to having these parasitic worms.
Experts say climate change may increase the potential for worm infections. With a greater incidence of heavy storms in some regions, floodwaters can carry the worms or their eggs to new locations, even into homes, raising the threat to humans.
The health impacts can range from mild to severe, depending on the degree of infection. Children may experience stomach ailments and fatigue, which disrupt their concentration at school or keep them home. The infections cause nutritional deficiency and can lead to anemia, and also have been linked to impaired physical and mental development.
Deworming
Deworming improves your child’s immunity and thereby protecting him/her from chronic illnesses caused by worms.
As the infected children cannot concentrate on their studies, their education and productivity are at stake besides health risks. To avoid untoward incidents in physical and mental health, parents must ensure that their child is dewormed regularly.
Advantage of deworming
Deworming improves your child’s immunity and thereby protecting him/her from chronic illnesses caused by worms.
It improves concentration and attendance, making them more productive in school.
It increases nutritional uptake and controls infections such as anemia, loose bowels, etc.
It improves work potential and livelihood opportunities.
It helps reduce worm infection in the community.
Not only children, but adults too are prone to worm infections. Therefore, deworming should be done in adults as well and under the guidelines of health professionals.
Cheryl M. Luis is the wife of George N. True II. Like her husband, she advocates health and lifestyle writing and vows to continue “Health Frontiers” as her husband’s legacy.
