The deworming campaign of Bacolod City targets some 43,741 children aged one to four, aimed at eliminating intestinal parasitism in children by administering anti-helminthic drugs as part of the National Deworming Month this January.

The target number of children for said age group, based on the 2023 data, will be the initial recipients here due to the limited supply of deworming tablets.

Jamaica Gail Isidto, City Health Office (CHO) health education and promotion officer-designate, said yesterday that deworming tablets are now available for children aged one to four in barangay health centers.

“The rest of the population will follow upon procurement and delivery of the medicines,” she said.

The World Health Organization said albendazole or mebendazole are the most commonly used drugs in treating common intestinal worms.

The Department of Health’s “Oplan Goodbye Bulate” to address soil-transmitted helminthiasis is a public health concern, as it can cause anemia, malnutrition and impaired physical and cognitive development, resulting in poor growth and school performance in children.

“Parents are encouraged to have their children participate in the deworming campaign for the improvement of their overall health, nutritional status, access to education, and quality of life,” the CHO said in an advisory.

Among the simple ways to prevent worm infection include washing hands before and after eating or preparing food and after touching the soil or using the bathroom, keeping fingernails clean and short, wearing shoes and slippers, drinking clean and safe water, frequent deworming of pet cats and dogs, thoroughly washing fruits and vegetables before eating, keeping the surroundings clean, and avoiding defecation in open areas. (PNA)