K-P launches drive to combat worms

8.2m children to be dewormed; 73,000 staff mobilised

PESHAWAR:

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa has embarked on a noble and ambitious mission to protect the health of over 8.2 million children, aged five to 14 years, across all 22 districts of the province from the threat of intestinal worms. This comprehensive initiative is a testament to the government’s commitment to the well-being of its youth and involves the mobilization of more than 73,000 teachers and medical personnel, encompassing children from both private and government schools, including madrassas.

In a meeting convened by the K-P Health Minister, a delegation from the IRD and Evidence Action, led by former Member Provincial Assembly and Policy Advisor Sumaira Shams, discussed the Deworming Program in great detail. Attended by Secretary Health Mahmood Aslam Wazir, Senior Program Advisor Qadeer Baig, and other key officials, the session underscored the government’s determination to tackle the challenge of intestinal worms in school-going children over the next three years.

It was revealed during the meeting that approximately 12 million children in the province have already received deworming medication, with plans to provide safe and effective treatment to over eight million children annually for the next three years. Moreover, preparations are underway for staff training scheduled for September, after which the deworming program will be set into motion.

In another development, Syed Qasim Ali Shah announced the commencement of geo-tagging for approximately 34,000 clinics across the province, including nearly 20,000 unauthorized clinics. This move towards digital documentation aims to streamline healthcare services and ensure accountability in the healthcare sector.

A significant step towards public engagement was taken with the inauguration of the first e-Kachehri live session, presided over by the Health Minister and Health Secretary Mahmood Aslam Wazir. The minister emphasized the importance of utilizing social media platforms to foster communication between the government and the public, underscoring a commitment to transparency and accountability. During the session, the minister personally addressed queries and concerns raised by the public, demonstrating a hands-on approach to governance.

The session received numerous questions regarding health services, particularly in K-P MTI hospitals, which were promptly addressed by the health minister. Queries concerning specific matters were directed to the relevant authorities, ensuring a comprehensive response to public concerns.

Moreover, the Directorate General Health Services and Directorate General of Drugs and Pharmacies responded to inquiries regarding their respective services, demonstrating a commitment to transparency and accountability.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 24^th, 2024.