The ‘Stop Diarrhoea Campaign 2025’ under the theme “Stop Diarrhoea Through Hygiene and ORS” was officially launched across Kohima, Zunheboto, and Peren districts on June 16 by the respective District Health Societies under National Health Mission (NHM).
Kohima
In Kohima, the campaign was launched by SDO (C), Rorheu Peseyie. Speaking at the event, Dr. Khrievilhou Nakhro, DPO (RMNCAH+N), highlighted the high burden of diarrhoea in children under five in India and shared that ORS and Zinc have helped reduce related deaths by 50.6%. He stressed the importance of awareness, hygiene, and availability of free ORS and Zinc at health units and Anganwadi centres. DVBO, Dr. Kevilhulie Meyase, also spoke on malaria prevention, noting zero reported cases in parts of the district since 2021. The programme was chaired by Dy. CMO, Dr. Imchatoshi, and the vote of thanks was delivered by DPM (NHM), Avikali Jakhalu.
Zunheboto
In Zunheboto, the campaign was launched at Little Spring School by the District Health Society, NHM. Extra Assistant Commissioner (EAC), Wedie Therie, graced the programme as the special guest.
He highlighted that diarrhoea causes 5% of child deaths in India and can be prevented through early intervention, hygiene, and use of ORS and Zinc. ORS packets were distributed to students and caregivers, and health workers demonstrated homemade ORS preparation and handwashing techniques. The programme was chaired by DPM (NHM), Rosemary Vitoli, with demonstrations by GNM (RBSK) Amenli and BPM Valerie Kiba.
Peren
In Peren, the campaign was launched at District Hospital by the District Health Society. Dr. Aoyanger, DNO, said the aim was to improve ORS and Zinc coverage, manage diarrhoea cases, and prevent child deaths—especially among children under 24 months. Activities include awareness drives, setting up ORS-Zinc corners, strengthening health services, and distribution of ORS and Zinc by ASHAs to households with under-five children. The campaign will also focus on improving sanitation and hygiene through IEC activities and mobilization of frontline workers and health teams. CMO Office Peren has appealed to all households with children below five years to avail the free services being provided during the campaign.
Tuensang
Similarly, District Health Society Tuensang launched the campaign at the Chief Medical Officer’s (CMO) conference hall.
Speaking at the programme, DPO (UIP/RCH), Dr. Waulong Phom, gave a presentation highlighting the key strategies of the campaign. He said the aim is to achieve zero child deaths due to diarrhoea by ensuring the wide use of ORS and Zinc, training health care workers, and involving all departments and stakeholders.
Dr. Phom informed that ORS and Zinc tablets will be made available at all health units and some selected Anganwadi centres. ASHAs will carry out the distribution, with support from the Social Welfare Department. He added that diarrhoea cases usually increase during summer and monsoon seasons, making this the right time to launch the campaign. As part of the event, staff nurse Kherila from RBSK Tuensang demonstrated proper handwashing techniques and preparation of homemade ORS.