10 August as National Worm Liberation Day and 17 August as Mop-up Day

Raipur, the health of children, education and a better future are often hindered by intestinal worm infections, which can cause malnutrition, anemia, weakness, loss of appetite, frequent illness and reduced concentration. To protect children, the state will observe National Worm Liberation Day on 10 August, administering a dose of Albendazole to children and adolescents aged 1 to 19 across the state. The health department's statewide campaign aims not only to treat worm infections but also to provide better nutrition, health and educational opportunities. The goal is to reach approximately 1.10 crore children and adolescents in the state, delivering Albendazole through government and private schools, Anganwadi centres and other institutions. Worm infections spread mainly due to unsanitary conditions such as open defecation, contaminated soil, eating without washing hands, drinking polluted water, walking barefoot on contaminated soil and not washing hands after defecation. Infected children miss essential nutrients, affecting physical and mental development. WHO and other health agencies consider regular deworming an effective measure for child health protection. Under the campaign, children aged 1‑2 will receive half a tablet and those aged 2‑19 a full tablet of Albendazole under supervision of trained health workers, teachers and Anganwadi staff. Health workers have been trained. The health department urges parents not to view National Worm Liberation Day merely as a health program but as an important opportunity for their children's bright future. If a child misses the dose on 10 August, a mop‑up day on 17 August will provide the deworming medicine, helping reduce malnutrition and anemia, boost immunity and improve academic performance. Parents are requested to ensure their children receive the deworming medicine on both days.