Awareness programme on national deworming day

ALIGARH  : The Rural Health Training Centre (RHTC), Jawan, running under the patronage of the Department of Community Medicine, JN Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University organized an awareness programme at Ucch Prathmik Vidyalaya, Jawan, to mark the National Deworming Day.

In her address, Prof. Saira Mehnaz (Chairperson, Department of Community Medicine) said that parasitic intestinal worm infestation, technically called soil-transmitted helminthiases, is a significant public health problem, which has detrimental effects on children’s growth and well-being. She said efforts should be made to educate the rural population to take preventive measures in this regard.

Dr. Uzma Eram (Member Incharge, RHTC) and Dr. Tabassum Nawab emphasized the importance of hygienic practices to be adopted and regular deworming for better growth and development of children.

Dr. Ajitha, Dr. Afeefa and Dr. Asma presented a short skit depicting the causes, signs, and symptoms of worm infestation. Dr. Shubham spoke on the importance of hand hygiene and demonstrated the correct steps of hand washing.

Dr. Muntzim highlighted the symptoms of worm infestation and its harmful effects like anemia, poor immunity, and malnourishment, leading to the improper physical and mental growth of children. He also suggested ways of preventing the transmission of infection.

Dr. Monish, Dr. Absar and Dr. Chandan interacted with the children to educate them about worm infestation and hand hygiene, while interns and junior residents participated in poster and chart-making activities related to National Deworming Day.

Government-provided Albendazole tablets were also distributed among children.