Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 07 February 2025
In its continued efforts to achieve an Anaemia Mukt Bharat and ensure a worm-free future for children, the Government of India is set to implement the February round of National Deworming Day (NDD) 2025 across the country. The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare in coordination with the Department of Women and Child Development and the Department of School Education and Literacy, aims to reduce the burden of intestinal worm infections among children and adolescents aged 1 to 19 years.
Worm infestations impair nutritional status and affect children’s physical and cognitive development, leading to stunted growth, poor nutrition, and blood loss. Children with heavy worm infections often suffer from fatigue and illness, resulting in poor school attendance and low concentration levels. Studies indicate that regular deworming significantly reduces absenteeism in schools and improves the overall health of children.
In the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, National Deworming Day will be observed on February 10, 2025, with a mop-up round scheduled for February 17, 2025. During this round, Albendazole tablets will be administered to children and adolescents at schools and Anganwadi centres.
Parents have been urged to ensure that their children receive the Albendazole tablet at their respective schools and Anganwadi centres. The general public is also requested to cooperate with health workers, including ANMs, Anganwadi workers, and ASHAs, and help spread awareness for the successful implementation of the National Deworming Day initiative in the islands.
For a healthier and worm-free future, active participation and cooperation from all sections of society are essential.