Regular deworming helps prevent malnutrition, anemia, and other health issues caused by worms.

In India, February 10 is observed as National Deworming Day. But what is deworming and why is it important?

 

Deworming is the process of removing intestinal parasites, such as worms, from the body using medications called anthelmintics. Common parasites include roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms, which can cause malnutrition, anemia, and digestive issues. Deworming is especially important for children, as worm infestations can hinder growth and cognitive development. It is typically done through oral medication, often as part of public health programs in schools and communities. Regular deworming improves overall health, enhances nutrient absorption, and boosts immunity. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends periodic deworming in areas where parasitic infections are prevalent, ensuring better public health outcomes.

 

Exposure to Intestinal Parasites

 

Children acquire intestinal parasites through various ways, including:

 

• Contaminated Food & Water – Consuming unwashed fruits, vegetables, or undercooked meat can introduce worms.
• Poor Hygiene – Not washing hands before eating or after using the toilet can transfer worm eggs.
• Playing in Soil – Some worms, like hookworms, enter through the skin when children walk barefoot on contaminated ground.
• Infected Pets – Close contact with pets carrying worms can spread parasites.
• Contaminated Surfaces – Worm eggs on toys, door handles, or floors can be ingested when children touch their mouths.
• Insect Bites – Some parasites, like certain roundworms, are transmitted by insect bites.
• Person-to-Person Contact – Sharing items or close contact with an infected person can spread pinworms.

Teaching children good hygiene and regular deworming can help prevent infections.

 

Symptoms that your child needs to be dewormed

 

A child may require deworming if they show the following symptoms:

 

• Stomach Pain – Frequent or unexplained abdominal discomfort.
• Loss of Appetite – Reduced interest in food, leading to weight loss.
• Nausea or Vomiting – Feeling sick or throwing up without an obvious cause.
• Diarrhea or Constipation – Irregular bowel movements, sometimes with blood or mucus.
• Itchy Anus – Especially at night, a sign of pinworm infection.
• Weakness & Fatigue – Due to nutrient loss caused by worms.
• Swollen Belly – Persistent bloating, especially in malnourished children.
• Teeth Grinding & Irritability – Often linked to worm infections.
• Anemia – Pale skin, tiredness, and dizziness due to iron deficiency.
• Visible Worms in Stool – A clear sign of infestation.

If a child has these symptoms, a doctor should be consulted for deworming treatment.

 

How to Deworm a Child?

 

• Consult a Doctor – Before deworming, seek medical advice to determine the right medication and dosage.
• Choose the Right Deworming Medicine – Common deworming medications include
• Albendazole and Mebendazole, available as chewable tablets or syrups.
• Administer the Medicine – Follow the doctor’s or package instructions. The medicine is usually given as a single dose. Some children may require a repeat dose after a few weeks.
• Ensure Proper Hydration – Give your child plenty of water to help flush out the worms.

What to Expect After Deworming?

 

A fissure and piles (hemorrhoids) are both conditions that affect the anal area, but they are different in nature:

 

• Mild Side Effects (Temporary): Some children may experience nausea, mild stomach pain, diarrhea, or dizziness, which usually subside within a day or two.
• Passing of Worms: In some cases, dead worms may be visible in the stool, which is a normal sign of the medication working.
• Improved Health: Over time, the child may show better appetite, weight gain, and increased energy levels.

How to Prepare for Deworming?

 

• Give the medicine with food to avoid nausea.
• Ensure the child is well-hydrated before and after taking the medicine.
• Maintain good hygiene (handwashing, clean food) to prevent reinfection.

Frequency of Deworming

 

The frequency of deworming depends on a child’s risk of infection, age, and local health guidelines. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the following:

 

• Twice a Year (Every 6 Months) – For children in areas with a high prevalence of intestinal worms, such as regions with poor sanitation and hygiene.
• Once a Year (Every 12 Months) – For children in areas with a lower risk of worm infestations.
• As Prescribed by a Doctor – If a child shows symptoms of worm infection, a doctor may recommend more frequent deworming.

Age-Based Recommendations:

 

Infants under 1 year: Deworming is generally not needed unless prescribed by a doctor.

 

Children 1–5 years: Deworming every 6 months is recommended.

 

School-aged children (5–14 years): Regular deworming every 6 months is crucial, especially in high-risk areas.

 

Regular deworming helps prevent malnutrition, anemia, and other health issues caused by worms. Along with deworming, maintaining good hygiene, such as washing hands and keeping food clean, further reduces the risk of infection.

 

Importance of Regular Deworming for Children

 

• Prevents Malnutrition – Worms absorb essential nutrients from the body, leading to poor growth and development.
• Boosts Immunity – A worm-free body can fight infections better, reducing illnesses.
• Enhances Cognitive Development – Parasitic infections can cause fatigue and hinder brain function, affecting learning and concentration.
• Reduces Anemia – Many worms, like hookworms, cause blood loss, leading to iron deficiency and weakness.
• Improves Digestion – Worms disrupt gut health, causing stomach pain, diarrhea, or constipation. Deworming ensures a healthier digestive system.
• Prevents Spread of Infections – Children play and interact closely, making worm infestations easily transmissible. Deworming helps control outbreaks.
• Promotes Overall Well-being – A child free of parasites is more active, eats well, and grows stronger.

Health organizations recommend periodic deworming to ensure children stay healthy and thrive.

 

By deworming children regularly, parents and caregivers help ensure their physical and mental development, prevent severe health complications, and contribute to a healthier future for their children and communities.

 

Reviewed By:

DR.ANITHA.R

CONSULTANT – MICROBIOLOGY

MBBS, MD( MICROBIOLOGY)