Conducting a school deworming day: a manual for teachers
Comic book
Overview
What are intestinal worm infections?
Intestinal worms are parasites that live in the human intestines or in
the veins around the bladder. These worms are transmitted by eggs
excreted in human faeces or urine, which contaminate the soil or water
sources in areas that lack adequate sanitation. The worms consume part
of the nutrients and vitamins that children ingest.
Why do children need deworming?
Children are most vulnerable to worm infections, as their immune system
is not yet fully developed. Untreated worm infections prevent children’s
healthy growth, cause poor nutrition and reduce their capacity to
concentrate and learn. The treatment is simple, safe, effective and free
of charge. A single dose of deworming treatment drastically reduces the
number of worms in each child. Regular treatment contributes to good
health and nutrition for children of school age, which in turn leads to
increased enrolment and attendance, reduced class repetition and better
educational attainment. Children need these deworming medicines to grow
healthier and learn better in school. As a teacher, you can play an
important role in ensuring that every child in your class takes the
appropriate dosage of medicine.