An estimated 1.5 billion people including hundreds of millions of children are vulnerable to illnesses due to absence of regular deworming
This was disclosed by Dr Adams Sunday, Research Fellow 11, Paediatric infectious disease, Institute of Child Health, University of Benin during a lecture titled,” Good worm, Bad Worm- The Paradox of Soil Transmitted Helminths at a seminar organized by the Institute of Child Health in Benin City recently
According to him, prevention focuses on periodic deworming, improved sanitation, access to clean water, wearing footwear to prevent hookworm infection and health education to reduce reinfection, all of which work together to lower transmission and protect children from the long term consequences of these infections
“Soil- transmitted helminths, STHs, are among the most widespread parasitic infections globally, affecting an estimated 1.5 billion people, including hundreds of millions of children who are especially vulnerable to their health impacts
“In children, STHs such as Ascaris, Trichuris and hook worms contribute significantly to illness by causing malnutrition, impaired growth and reduced cognitive development, ultimately affecting school performance and long term well being,” he noted
On prevention and control, Dr Sunday advised that vegetables and fruits should be washed thoroughly, there should be efficient sewage disposal system, avoid unhygienic and indiscriminate defecation or dumping of excreta at refuse depots and untreated sewage should not be used as fertilizer
” Chronic infections cause general malaise, physical fatigue, and low physical fitness. This lethargy reduces a child’s capacity to pay attention and focus in school and due to recurrent abdominal pain, and weakness there is school absenteeism
“The compounding effect of educational loss alongside structural cognitive deficits severely diminishes long term academic performance,” he added
Meanwhile, the Institute of Child Health, University of Benin will hold a Valedictory seminar for Prof. Charles Osayande Eregie Ksm, former Director of the Institute of Child Heath
According to a statement by the Director, Institute of Child Health, Prof. Mrs Ayebor Sadoh, the seminar is titled,: “The Inaugural Deluge of Questions” to be delivered by Prof. Charles Eregie, Professor of Child Health and Neonatologist, Institute of Child Health, , Consultant, University of Benin Teaching Hospital( UBTH).
