The City Health Office (CHO) here is urging parents to avail of free deworming services for children aged one to 19 to help prevent malnutrition, anemia, and intestinal parasitic infections.
Dr. Mara Medina, CHO coordinator and chairperson of the Sangguniang Panlungsod (City Council) committee on health, said in a statement on Wednesday that intestinal worms remain a common but often overlooked health concern among children.
“More than 50 percent of children show no signs or symptoms, but the longer the worms remain in the body, the more likely they are to experience poor weight gain, malnutrition, and delayed growth,” she said.
“For some, it can also decrease their focus or mental ability.”
Medina said symptoms may include abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloating, nausea, and loss of appetite. She stressed the importance of proper hygiene, including regular handwashing, washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and avoiding raw food.
In addition to hygiene practices, she emphasized that regular deworming is essential.
Free deworming services in Batac City are conducted every January and July at the City Health Office, barangays, and schools. (PNA)
