Every year, on February 10, India observes National Deworming Day, to deworm children aged 1 to 19 years. Launched by the government, this mission focuses on reducing worm infections specifically among children; an important initiative aimed at raising awareness about the importance of deworming and improving health across the nation. The official theme for National Deworming Day 2025 is “Eliminate STH: Invest in a healthier future for children”. In this brief read, let us explore what National Deworming Day is all about, why everyone needs to be aware of the deworming campaign, the benefits of deworming, and how to spread the message..jpg)
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How STH Infects Human Beings?
Soil-transmitted helminths (STH) are a significant public health concern in India, with approximately 230 million children between the ages of one and fourteen affected by worm infections. STH stands for Soil-Transmitted Helminths, which are a group of parasitic worms that are transmitted to humans through contact with contaminated soil. These worms, which include species like Ascaris lumbricoides (roundworms), Trichuris trichiura (whipworms), Ancylostoma duodenal, and Necator americanus (hookworms), often infect children in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene. These infections can lead to anemia, and malnutrition, and hinder a child’s mental and physical development by disrupting their ability to absorb nutrients.
How Does STH Transmission Occur?
STH transmission occurs when people accidentally ingest or meet soil that is contaminated with the eggs or larvae of these worms. This usually happens through:
- Eating unwashed fruits and vegetables grown in contaminated soil.
- Walking barefoot on contaminated soil
- Drinking unclean water
- Through dirty hands
Health Effects Of STH:
- Anaemia especially from hookworm infections.
- Malnutrition and stunted growth, as worms compete for nutrients in the body.
- Impaired mental and physical development, particularly in children.
- Abdominal pain, diarrhea, and discomfort.
Also Read: National Deworming Day 2024: A Simple Guide On Intestinal Worms And Their Prevention
Effective Ways To Protect Your Body From Pathogens And Stay Healthy
To keep your child's body free from harmful pathogens and ensure good health, deworming treatment for children is vital. Here are five essential steps to follow that will help deal with parasitic worms.
Regular Handwashing
Why it helps: Washing hands frequently, especially after using the bathroom and before eating, reduces the chances of pathogens entering your body.
How to do it: Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, scrubbing all parts of your hands.
Maintain Proper Hygiene
Why it helps: Clean living conditions prevent the spread of pathogens. Keeping your body, home, and surroundings clean helps prevent infections.
How to do it: Bath regularly, clean your living spaces and avoid contact with contaminated water and food sources.
Ensure Safe Drinking Water
Why it helps: Drinking water that is contaminated can introduce harmful pathogens into your system.
How to do it: Drink purified or boiled water to eliminate potential pathogens. Use water filters or purification tablets when in doubt about water quality.
Eat Clean, Well-Cooked Food
Why it helps: Pathogens can be found in undercooked or improperly stored food, leading to infections and diseases, including parasitic infections.
How to do it: Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly, cook food to the right temperature, and store food properly to avoid contamination.
Take Regular Deworming Medication
Why it helps: Deworming medications help prevent and treat parasitic infections, particularly in areas where sanitation and hygiene may be challenging.
How to do it: Follow the recommended schedule for deworming, as directed by health authorities, especially for children. National Deworming Day often provides an opportunity to receive this treatment.
How To Deworm Children?
To deworm a child effectively, ensure a safe and effective process for helping the child get rid of body pathogens. By following these steps, you can help ensure that your child is free of parasitic worms and maintains better overall health.
Administer Prescribed Deworming Medication
Deworming medications, (such as albendazole or mebendazole) are effective in eliminating common intestinal worms. Give your child the prescribed medication according to the instructions. Ensure the dose is correct based on your child’s age and weight. These medications are usually available in tablet or syrup form.
Ensure The Child Takes The Medication On An Empty Stomach
Some deworming medications are more effective when taken on an empty stomach. Ensure your child has not eaten for at least 1-2 hours before taking the medication unless otherwise directed by the healthcare professional.
Encourage Hygiene Practices
Proper hygiene helps prevent reinfection and ensures that the deworming treatment is effective. Teach your child to wash their hands frequently, especially after using the bathroom and before eating. Clean their fingernails regularly and ensure they bathe regularly.
Consult A Healthcare Professional
A doctor or healthcare professional can confirm if your child needs deworming and advise on the appropriate medication and dosage. Visit your pediatrician or local health center for advice, especially if you are unsure about symptoms or if it's time for regular deworming.
Monitor Symptoms
Monitoring your child after deworming ensures there are no side effects or recurrence of symptoms. Watch for any side effects like nausea or abdominal pain, which may occur temporarily. If the symptoms persist or return, consult the healthcare provider for further treatment or check if another round of deworming is necessary.
(This content is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)
Author Profile: Preeti Sharma
Preeti Sharma has a Master's in Electronic Media and Mass Communication and certification in short-term writing from Florida. With close to a decade of experience, she specializes in crafting engaging blogs on beauty, veterinary care, and healthy cooking. Preeti is proficient in video editing tools and produces captivating and informative content across multiple platforms.
References:
Assessment of Knowledge about National Deworming Day and Impact of Deworming Training among Rural School Teachers in Maharashtra
Rahul Ambekar
https://www.ijmrhs.com/medical-research/assessment-of-knowledge-about-national-deworming-day-and-impact-of-deworming-training-among-rural-school-teachers-in-maharashtra-93807.html
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6737502/
