A month-long diarrhea prevention camp and Vitamin A distribution program for children was inaugurated on Monday at the Government Urban Primary Health Center in Kumarasampatty, Salem District. The inauguration was led by District Collector Dr. R. Brindadev, and City Mayor Mr. A. Ramachandran.
In her address, the District Collector emphasized the importance of the initiative: " Starting today (01.07.2024), a month-long diarrhea prevention camp and Vitamin A distribution camp will be held across all primary health centers, sub-health centers, government hospitals, and Anganwadi centers in Salem District until 31.07.2024.
Diarrhea is a major cause of mortality among children under five, contributing to 10% of deaths in this age group in India. Frequent diarrhea can lead to dehydration and malnutrition in children. Providing ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) can prevent deaths caused by diarrhea. To eliminate diarrhea-related deaths, the Tamil Nadu government has organized this month-long camp.
The camp will set up ORS distribution centers at all Anganwadi centers, sub-health centers, primary health centers, and government hospitals. Efforts will be made to raise awareness about the preparation of ORS, handwashing techniques, exclusive breastfeeding practices, and supplementary feeding methods.
Additionally, village health nurses and Anganwadi workers will visit homes with children under five to distribute free ORS packets and Zinc tablets for 14 days, educating parents on their usage during diarrhea.
Vitamin A is an essential nutrient for our body, crucial for healthy vision, immune function, and growth of skin, tissues, and bones. It is abundantly found in yellow fruits like mangoes, papayas, carrots, tomatoes, green leafy vegetables, milk, fish, and eggs. Nationally, Vitamin A syrup is provided free of charge every six months to children aged 6 months to 5 years.
In this camp, 3,118 personnel from the Public Health Department and Integrated Child Development Services will work together. The initiative will be supervised by 459 officers.
Through the diarrhea prevention camp in Salem District, 281,592 children under five will benefit, and through the Vitamin A distribution camp, 262,674 children will benefit. Parents are urged to utilize the ORS and Zinc tablets to protect their children from the effects of diarrhea," stated District Collector Dr. R. Brindadevi.
The event was attended by Deputy Mayor Mrs. M. Saradhadevi, Municipal Corporation Assistant Commissioner Mr. Sureshkumar, Deputy Directors (Health Services) Dr. Soundammal and Dr. Yoganand, City Health Officer Dr. A. Mohan, and Council Member Mrs. Sangeetha, along with other officials.
