14 States report reduction in worm prevalence infection in children

At least 14 States have reported a reduction in parasitic intestinal worm infection prevalence in children, revealed the latest report on the National Deworming Day (NDD).

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Key-Points

Soil-Transmitted Helminthiases (STH), also known as parasitic intestinal worm infection, is known to have detrimental effects on children’s physical growth and well-being and can cause anaemia and under-nutrition.

Regular deworming as advised by the World Health Organization eliminates worm infestation among children and adolescents living in areas with high STH burden.

As per WHO Report on STH published in 2012, in India there were an estimated 64% children in the age group (1-14 years) at risk of STH.

The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) completed the baseline STH mapping across the country by the end of 2016. The data showed varied prevalence ranging from 12.5 % in Madhya Pradesh to 85% in Tamil Nadu.