Second Biannual National Deworming Day to tackle worm infections in children

Schools and preschools (anganwadis) are ideal platforms for such a program, reaching children in their natural environment in a coordinated, cost-effective, and systematic way. The program is observed in all government and government-aided schools, and as of February 2016 private schools are also part of National Deworming Day. Children who are out of school, live in hard-to-reach areas, and are from vulnerable populations are mobilized by ASHAs to be dewormed at anganwadis on National Deworming Day.

Deworming may have very few side effects in some children.Those with high worm infections might experience nausea, mild abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, and fatigue. In line with the guidance from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and World Health Organization, comprehensive adverse event protocols have been put in place.In addition to deworming, maintaining healthy and hygienic practices will help children and communities remain safe from intestinal worm infections.

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare envisions an open-defecation-free India, which could potentially reduce the overall worm burden in a community. The efforts of Swach Bharat Abhiyan will further facilitate the progress and benefits of the National Deworming Day.

National Deworming Day is conducted with technical assistance from the World Health Organization, National Centre for Disease Control, and Evidence Action.