Odisha launches ambitious drive to make the state ‘worm-free’

BHUBANESWAR: The Odisha government, in collaboration with UNICEF, has launched a state-wide deworming campaign to improve the health and nutrition of children and women.

The month-long initiative, commencing on February 10, 2025, will administer deworming doses to 14.65 million children aged 1-19 years and 1.77 million women of reproductive age (20-24 years).

A mop-up round is scheduled for February 17 to reach those who miss the initial dose. A Vitamin A supplementation program will also be implemented simultaneously to strengthen immunity and prevent childhood blindness. The National Deworming Day (NDD) campaign will be conducted across schools, Anganwadi centres, private schools, playschools, and childcare institutions. Beneficiaries will receive age-appropriate Albendazole doses administered by teachers, Anganwadi workers, and ASHAs. Children aged 9-60 months will receive Vitamin A supplements at routine immunization sites and Village Health and Nutrition Days (VHSNDs).

“This initiative is crucial for reducing the burden of intestinal worms, which impact growth, learning, and overall well-being,” said Dr. Sanjukta Sahoo, Director, Family Welfare.

The campaign would cover 24 districts – Angul, Boudh, Bhadrak, Bargarh, Balasore, Debagarh, Dhenkanal, Ganjam, Gajapati, Jharsuguda, Jajpur, Jagatsinghpur, Khordha, Keonjhar, Koraput, Kendrapara, Malkangiri, Mayurbhanj, Nabarangpur, Nuapada, Puri, Sambalpur, Subarnapur, and Sundargarh – entirely, while six districts – Bolangir, Cuttack, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Nayagarh, and Rayagada – would also implement Lymphatic Filariasis – Mass Drug Administration (LF-MDA) for children aged 1-2 years.

UNICEF representatives highlighted the campaign’s role in improving health, nutrition, and education outcomes. The drive is a joint effort by the Departments of Health & Family Welfare, School & Mass Education, Women & Child Development, and ST & SC Development, with UNICEF as a key partner.