Soil Transmitted Helminths (STH) are a significant public health concern for India. Around 22 crore Indian children aged 1-14 are estimated to be at risk of worm infections. Worms in children interfere with nutrient uptake, and can contribute to anaemia, malnourishment, and impaired mental and physical development.
To combat this issue, in 2015 the Government of India launched the fixed-day anganwadi and school-based National Deworming Day to deworm all children aged 1-19 years. The National Deworming Day is conducted in all states/UTs on February 10 every year, with a mop-up day on February 15. Some states/UTs also conduct a bi-annual round on 10 August, depending on worm prevalence in their state/UT.
Tripura, with 60% worm prevalence, will conduct both rounds as per Government of India and WHO guidelines.
The key program implementation stakeholders are Departments of Health, Education, Social Welfare and Social Education. Other stakeholders include the Departments of Panchayati Raj, Tribal Welfare, Rural Development, Urban Development, and Drinking Water and Sanitation. Evidence Action is the technical assistance partner to the Government of Tripura for National Deworming Day.
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