Srinagar, Mar 19 : Children who have worms often feel tired due to malnutrition and anemia, which can lead to impaired physical and cognitive development, doctors have warned.
In discussions with the news agency, doctors said that while worm infections are relatively easy to control, parents must remain vigilant about their children’s health and behavior. “Untreated worm infections not only hinder healthy growth but also contribute to poor nutrition, reducing a child’s ability to concentrate and learn,” they said.
“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,” they explained.
Dr Junaid, a pediatric specialist, informed that worm infections can result in various health problems such as anemia, abdominal distention, severe abdominal pain, and diarrhea. They can lead to loss of appetite, malnourishment, impaired mental and physical development, as well as tissue damage requiring corrective surgery, he said.
Similarly, Dr Shugufta said that deworming improves a child’s immunity, protecting them from chronic illnesses caused by worms. “It enhances concentration and attendance in school, increases nutrient uptake, and controls infections like anemia and loose bowels. It also improves work potential and livelihood opportunities while reducing worm infection in the community,” he said.
Addressing misconceptions, Dr Shugufta clarified that deworming can be administered in any season at regular intervals. However, she expressed concern that many children are not receiving deworming treatment, which contributes to the prevalence of anemia.
According to NFHS-5 data, approximately three-fourths (73%) of children aged 6-59 months are anemic in India. This includes 25% with mild anemia, 44% with moderate anemia, and 4% with severe anemia. The overall prevalence of anemia in children has increased from 43% in NFHS-4 to 73% in NFHS-5, affecting both girls and boys equally.
Children born to mothers with anemia are more likely to be anemic themselves, regardless of their mothers’ educational background. In Jammu & Kashmir, three-fourths (74%) of children are anemic, even if their mothers have 12 or more years of schooling.
