National Deworming Day is a health initiative focused on reducing the threat of parasitic worm infections in children. The initiative underscores the importance of periodic deworming in improving children’s health, nutritional intake, cognitive development, and educational performance.
History of National Deworming Day
In India, National Deworming Day is observed biannually on February 10 and August 10. It was launched in 2015 by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) to reach more than 270 million children across the country.
Observance of National Deworming Day
On National Deworming Day, Albendazole tablets are distributed to all targeted children at schools and Anganwadi centers. The deworming program is accompanied by various behavior change practices, including hygiene and sanitation practices to reduce the incidence of re-infection.
(Image: Health workers distributing Albendazole tablets to children at a school.)
Significance of National Deworming Day
National Deworming Day plays a vital role in:
- Promoting Children’s Health: Regular deworming contributes to better nutrition and physical growth among children.
- Improving Cognitive Development: Deworming aids in enhancing cognitive development, thereby improving children’s learning capacity and educational performance.
- Community Health Awareness: The initiative also promotes awareness about the importance of cleanliness, sanitation, and other health practices to prevent worm infections.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: When is National Deworming Day observed?
A: In India, National Deworming Day is observed biannually on February 10 and August 10.
Q2: What is the purpose of National Deworming Day?
A: The main purpose of National Deworming Day is to reduce the cases of worm infections among children by administering deworming treatment to all targeted children. It also aims to educate about the importance of cleanliness and sanitation in preventing such infections.
Q3: How is National Deworming Day observed?
A: On National Deworming Day, Albendazole tablets are administered to children at schools and Anganwadi centers. The event is also used to promote good hygiene and sanitation practices to reduce the risk of re-infection.
Q4: What are the benefits of deworming?
A: Regular deworming can help improve physical growth, enhance cognitive development, and improve the learning capacity and educational performance of children. It also contributes to better nutritional absorption in children.
Q5: Who is targeted on National Deworming Day?
A: National Deworming Day primarily targets all children between the ages of 1 and 19 across India, reaching them at schools and Anganwadi centers.