National De-worming Day celebrates across the country

Today is National Deworming Day. The objective of the day is to raise awareness on intestinal worms, their types, their prevention techniques in growing children and to attain complete eradication of Soil-Transmitted Helminths in children, particularly from 1 to 19 years of age.

Intestinal worms are parasites found in the human intestine that thrive on the same nutrients and minerals that toddlers survive on. These worms, found in the gastrointestinal tract, can feed on the human body and hamper the growth and development of children in their young years. Furthermore, if left untreated, these worms multiply causing way more damage to the body.

About 241 million children in India are at risk of infections from Soil-Transmitted Helminths and resulting anaemia and other health issues. About 7 in 10 children between 6 to 59 months of age have anaemia, especially in rural areas.

Washing hands can prevent worm infestation and many other diseases to a larger extent. Inculcating healthy practices along with deworming treatment like administration of Albendazole is essential for a healthy and worm free life.