DIMAPUR: The Office of the Chief Medical Officer, Kohima, under the aegis of the National Health Mission (NHM), launched the 2nd Round of National De Worming Day (NDD) at Government High School, Pezoucha, New Secretariat, Kohima on August 10.
The programme was chaired by Dr. Katila Longchar, MO (RBSK), with the keynote address delivered by a teacher of GHS. Launching the round, Dr. Khrievilhou Nakhro, DPO (RMNCAH+N), highlighted that worm infections cause anemia, nutritional impairment, loss of appetite, weakness, stomach ache, nausea, diarrhoea and other health issues among children. He informed that de worming tablets would be distributed free of cost at schools and Anganwadi centres targeting children aged 1–19 years. He cited the direct benefits of de worming in controlling anemia and improving nutrition, while indirect benefits include enhanced immunity, concentration, learning capacity and livelihood opportunities. Dr. Nakhro also administered Albendazole to a student. Dr. Nikdirenla Lusang, MO (RBSK), pronounced the vote of thanks.
In Phek, the 2nd Round of NDD was launched at Government High School, Phek village on August 10. The programme, observed through schools and Anganwadi centres, will have a mop up round on August 17. Dr. Khriekuolie Liezietsu, DPO (RMNCAH+N), explained that Albendazole is a widely used antiparasitic medicine effective against intestinal and tissue worm infections. He urged students to practise good hygiene and follow the “Golden Rules” of washing hands with soap, keeping nails short, wearing shoes outdoors, and consuming clean water and washed fruits and vegetables. The programme was attended by teachers, DCM, BPM, BAC of Phek Sadar, ANM, ASHAs and DMC.
In Tuensang, the NDD programme was launched at Wela Foundation School on August 10, with Dr. Shongmo, MO UPHC Tuensang, administering the first dose. Earlier, Dr. Shongmo sensitised students on the objectives of NDD, the impact of worm infections, and the benefits of de worming. The programme was attended by the RBSK team, teachers and more than 800 students.
In Mokokchung, the district level launching of the 2nd Round of NDD was held at Government Middle School, Salangtem on August 10. Dr. Limanaro, DPO (UIP & RCH), sensitised students on the objectives of observing Deworming Day, stating that it aims to improve children’s overall health, nutritional status, access to education and quality of life by deworming those aged 1-19 years. She cautioned that children are at risk due to barefoot play, open defecation, dirty hands, unclean food and unsafe water.
Dr. Limanaro highlighted common types of worms, signs of infection and causes such as malnutrition, anemia, lack of appetite, stomach pain, nausea, diarrhoea, weakness, weight loss and itching.
She emphasised the importance of cleanliness to prevent soil transmitted helminths and explained the benefits of de worming, including reduced anemia, improved nutrition, better physical and mental development, enhanced learning and school attendance, and a healthier community. Following the programme, students were administered Albendazole tablets, and the RBSK team conducted health check ups.