DOH warns misleading deworming claims may cause fear
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health warned the public against misinformation on deworming, saying the program remains "safe, proven and effective" in protecting children from intestinal worms.
In a statement Thursday, July 16, the DOH urged parents, guardians, schools and communities to support its nationwide deworming activities for July.
"The DOH likewise reminds the public to rely only on verified information from the Department of Health and to refrain from sharing unverified reports or misleading claims that may cause unnecessary fear and discourage participation in this important public health program," the agency said.
The warning came after the death of a Grade 4 pupil in Trece Martires City, Cavite, who had participated in a deworming activity at Hugo Perez Elementary School-Annex with the City Health Office.
The Department of Education said the child died of an infection that led to septic shock. Several other pupils also felt unwell after the activity, according to DepEd.
Why deworming is done
DepEd conducts school-based deworming activities twice a year to help remove intestinal parasites among students.
The DOH said children are especially vulnerable to soil-transmitted helminths, or intestinal worms, because they are more likely to come into contact with contaminated soil.
If left untreated, intestinal worm infections may lead to poor nutrition, stunting, anemia and delayed learning, the agency said. They may also reduce the body's resistance to other illnesses.
"They can also affect a child's attendance and performance in school," the DOH said.
Possible side effects
The health department said albendazole, the deworming medicine used in the program, is recommended by the World Health Organization and has been part of the country's public health program for about three decades.
"It is generally safe and well tolerated," the DOH said.
The agency said some children may experience mild and temporary side effects after taking the medicine, including stomach pain, vomiting, fever, diarrhea or skin rashes.
"These reactions are expected in some cases, usually occur within the first few hours, and can be managed with proper medical guidance," the DOH said.
The DOH said it has directed health workers in local governments to strictly follow safety protocols in conducting school-based deworming activities.
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