Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 05 July 2025
As part of the preparations for the upcoming STOP Diarrhoea Campaign, which will be observed from July 16 to August 31, 2025, an awareness programme was organised on July 1 at the ICDS Training Centre, Attam Pahad, for Anganwadi Workers. The campaign aims to achieve zero child deaths due to childhood diarrhoea, which continues to remain a major public health concern.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. H.M. Siddaraju, Deputy Director (FW) and Joint Secretary (RCH-II), Directorate of Health Services, highlighted the core strategy of the campaign based on three pillars—Prevent, Protect, and Treat. He stressed the importance of administering the Rotavirus vaccine, early initiation of breastfeeding within the first hour of birth, exclusive breastfeeding for six months, timely introduction of complementary feeding, maintaining personal hygiene, handwashing with soap and water, safe drinking water, and proper nutrition. He also underlined the timely use of Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) and Zinc during diarrhoeal episodes.
The campaign focuses on promoting the use of ORS and Zinc, enhancing hygiene practices, and educating communities on diarrhoea management to reduce child morbidity and mortality.
During the programme, Anganwadi Workers demonstrated proper handwashing techniques and the correct method of preparing ORS. A total of 212 Anganwadi Workers participated in the session.
Speaking on the occasion, the Nodal Officer emphasized the vital role played by Anganwadi Workers as frontline health educators. “Anganwadi Workers play a crucial frontline role in reaching out to families and educating mothers on hygiene, nutrition, and early intervention. Their awareness and active participation are essential for reducing child mortality due to diarrhoea,” the officer said.
