To-day - National Deworming Day, an initiative aiming to deworm all children between the ages of 1 and 19, including those enrolled in and out of school, through government and government-aided schools and Anganwadi centres - a key intervention to improve the overall health, nutritional status, educational’
The official theme for National Deworming Day
2025: “Eliminate STH: Invest in a healthier future for children.”
·
Soil-transmitted helminths (STH)
Deworming offers a range of health benefits
for both children and adults, especially in areas where parasitic infections
are common. Here's a breakdown of why it's important and how it helps:
🌿 What Is
Deworming?
Deworming is the process of eliminating
intestinal parasites—like roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms—using
medication. These parasites feed off nutrients in the human body, often without
showing symptoms for years.
✅ Benefits
of Deworming
For Adults
- Improved Nutrient Absorption:
Worms steal nutrients from your food, leading to malnutrition even if you
eat well. Deworming ensures your body gets what it needs.
- Boosted Immunity:
Removing parasites helps your immune system function more effectively,
making you less vulnerable to other infections.
- Reduced Fatigue and Discomfort:
Worms can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fatigue. Deworming
alleviates these symptoms and improves daily well-being.
- Prevention of Serious Illnesses:
Untreated worm infestations can lead to anemia, intestinal blockages, and
chronic health issues.
For
Children
- Supports Growth and Development:
Worms can stunt physical and cognitive development. Deworming helps
children grow healthier and perform better in school.
- Better Future Outcomes:
Studies show that dewormed children have improved long-term health and
economic prospects.
📆 How Often
Should You Deworm?
Experts recommend:
- Children: Every 6 months starting from age 2
- Adults: At least once a year, even without
symptoms
📅 Safe Deworming
Schedule Recommendations
|
Age Group |
Frequency |
Notes |
|
Children (2–5 yrs) |
Every 6 months |
Start at age 2; especially important in
areas with poor sanitation |
|
School-age children (6–18 yrs) |
Every 6–12 months |
Often done through school health programs |
|
Adults |
Once a year |
More frequent if exposed to contaminated
food, water, or soil |
|
Pregnant women |
After first trimester |
Only with doctor’s advice; some medications
are not safe during pregnancy |
Deworming Scheduled doses for Children and
Adolescents:
- 1-2 years: Half tablet
(Albendazole 400mg).
- 2-19 years: One full tablet
(Albendazole 400mg).
- Biannual administration: Recommended
in areas with high infection rates (above 50%).
Deworming Schedule for Adults:
- Annual or biannual: Recommended
for adults, especially those at high risk.
- High-risk adults: May
need deworming more frequently based on individual risk factors.
- Consultation:
It's crucial to consult a healthcare professional to determine the
appropriate schedule for adults.
🧼 Tips to
Prevent Reinfection
- Using sanitary
toilets, not defecating outside.
- Avoid walking barefoot in contaminated areas Wear slippers and
shoe.
- Wash hands before eating and after using the toilet.
- Keep fingernails short and clean.
- Drink clean, filtered water.
- Washing fruits and
vegetables in safe and clean water.
- Properly cooking
food.
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