LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte (PIA) – The Provincial Health Office (PHO) will be conducting a mass deworming activity this month for one to four years old to reinforce the prevention and control of soil-transmitted helminths.

During the PIA Ilocandia Forum, Dr. Rickson Balalio, acting provincial health officer, said that some 6,000 toddlers will be the initial recipients of the government’s drive to eliminate intestinal parasitism among children.

“Ang mass deworming natin is kino-conduct twice a year- during January and July. Ang ginagawa natin ngayon is deworming sa lahat ng ating mga kabataan,” said Balalio.

The health officer said a school-based effort to deworm kids aged 5-12 years old will also be conducted. Meanwhile, a community-based deworming activity will be held once the deworming tablets are distributed by the Department of Health (DOH).

Rickson enjoins parents to bring their children to the mass deworming activities in the province as parasitic infection brings risk in the physical and cognitive development of the child.

“Kapag may mga bulate yung mga anak natin, naaagawan po ng nutrisyon yung bata. Mabagal ang growth and development ng bata,” said Balalio.

When untreated, children with parasitic infection will develop anemia and malnutrition, which will affect school performance.

Balalio advises the public to cook their food properly and carefully before it, practice proper hygiene, and wear shoes or appropriate footwear to ensure no direct contact with sand and soil.

“We encourage you to support the deworming activity ng DOH, PHO, ng ating local government units, at schools. Let us all support the programs of the health sector,” ended Balalio.

PIA Ilocandia Forum is a monthly press conference conducted by the Philippine Information Agency Ilocos Norte Information Center. (JCR/MJTAB PIA Ilocos Norte)