A massive deworming exercise is set to commence in Ghana on Monday, October 28, 2024 aiming to reach over 2 million school-age children between five and 14 years old.
The exercise, scheduled to run until Sunday, November 3, 2024, is a collaborative effort between the Ghana Health Service (GHS) and the Ghana Education Service (GES).
The Disease: Schistosomiasis and Soil-Transmitted Helminth.
The exercise seeks to eliminate schistosomiasis and control soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infestations, which are prevalent in areas with poor sanitation, inadequate hygiene practices, and low socio-economic conditions.
Schistosomiasis, caused by parasitic worms in freshwater, can lead to abdominal pain, diarrhea, blood in urine and stool, liver damage, anemia, malnutrition, and decreased productivity.
Administration of Medication
Eligible children will receive 600-milligram praziquantel and 400mg albendazole medicines, donated by the World Health Organization (WHO), under the strict supervision of trained school teachers and health workers.
Parents are advised to ensure their children eat before taking the medication to facilitate effective absorption.
Support and Awareness
The Director of Public Health Division of the GHS, Dr. Franklin Asiedu-Bekoe, urged the media to raise awareness about the exercise and its importance.
The Director of the School Health Education Programme of the GES, Theresa Oppong-Mensah, assured that schools are ready, with sufficient food and water provided on the day of medication administration.
Impact and Commitment
Dr. Patrick Kuma-Aboagye, Director-General of the GHS, emphasized the importance of eliminating schistosomiasis and controlling STH to improve the overall health and well-being of the population.
The USAID Act to End NTDs Programme expressed commitment to supporting Ghana’s efforts in combating these diseases
BY Daniel Bampoe
The post 2m Children To Be Dewormed appeared first on DailyGuide Network.
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