National deworming day is an important initiative for the health of the children. Deworming is a process to kill worms — commonly tape, round and hook worm — that infest bodies of children below 18 years of age.
- People with light infections usually have no symptoms.
- Heavier infections can cause a range of symptoms including diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weakness.
- Loss of appetite.
Infections can be prevented by taking precautions, including:
- Using sanitary toilets, not defecating outside.
- Keep the surroundings clean
- Hand-washing, particularly before eating and after using toilets.
- Wearing slippers and shoes.
- Washing fruits and vegetables in safe and clean water.
- Properly cooking food; Keeping cooked food covered
- Always drink clean water
Rigorous studies have shown that deworming has a significant impact on the health, education and livelihoods of treated children. Outcomes of deworming can include:
- Decreases anaemia and improves nutrition
- Increases growth and weight gain
- Improves cognition and mental and physical development
- Increases resistance to other infections
- Supports more frequent school attendance
- Improves children’s ability to learn better and be more active in school
- Increase hours worked and wages earned in the long-run in adulthood