1.12 cr kids to benefit from deworming drive today

The Health and Family Welfare Department has finalised arrangements for administering Albendazole tablets to 1.12 crore children and students aged 1 to 19 across the state on National Deworming Day (NDD). G. Veerapandian, Commissioner of the Department of Health and Family Welfare, announced on Sunday.
He confirmed that the tablets have been dispatched to all districts, and distribution arrangements are in place. Awareness campaign materials, including posters and pamphlets, have also been distributed.
Veerapandian stated that 34% of children and students in the state suffer from intestinal worms.
To combat this, 400mg Albendazole tablets will be distributed through Anganwadi centres and government and private educational institutions. The aim is to reach 1.12 crore children.
The primary distribution will take place on Monday, targeting children enrolled in Anganwadis and those not attending school. A mop-up round for those who miss the initial distribution is scheduled for February 17.
Anganwadi workers and teachers will administer the tablets, following government guidelines.
The health department, in collaboration with ASHA workers and ANMs, has coordinated transportation, infrastructure, tablet availability, IEC (Information, Education, and Communication) materials, and safe drinking water.
District medical and health officials have been tasked with overseeing the process.
Special booths will also be set up at transport hubs like bus stands and railway stations to maximise coverage. The programme will also promote awareness about hygiene practices, such as avoiding open defecation and proper handwashing.
Health authorities and independent monitors will supervise the programme’s implementation. Health centres will be on alert and prepared to coordinate with emergency services (108 and 104) in case of adverse reactions. Mr. Veerapandian appealed to school managements and the public for their cooperation in ensuring the success of this initiative, which aims to improve children’s health and well-being.