DOH warns vs misinformation on deworming: It's 'safe, effective'

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Health (DOH) on Thursday cautioned the public against misinformation on deworming as it emphasized that the program is safe and effective for Filipino children.

This came after a Grade 4 student from Trece Martires City, Cavite died of an infection that led to septic shock following a deworming activity. The pupil, identified only as “Rex” was hospitalized last July 3 after experiencing vomiting and died later that day.

READ: Grade 4 pupil dies after ‘routine deworming’

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“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 DOH said in a press release.

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With this, it urged parents, guardians, schools, and local communities to continue supporting the deworming activities across the country for the month of July noting that the program remains “safe, effective, and a proven way” to protect the kids from intestinal worms.

“Children are especially vulnerable to soil-transmitted helminths or intestinal worms because they are more likely to come into contact with contaminated soil. Left untreated, these infections can lead to poor nutrition, anemia, stunted physical growth, delayed learning, and reduced resistance to other illnesses. They can also affect a child’s attendance and performance in school,” the DOH added.

READ: Teachers’ groups: Cavite pupil’s death exposes gaps in school system

The agency noted that Albendazole, the deworming medicine used in the public health program for nearly three decades “is generally safe and well tolerated.” It added that the medicine is recommended by the World Health’s Organization.

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The DOH also acknowledged the “mild and temporary side effects” some children may experience after deworming, such as stomach pain, vomiting, fever, diarrhea, or skin rashes which may occur within the first few hours after taking the medicine.

It added that it instructed health workers and local communities to ensure safe administration of the medicine and proper management of any adverse reactions.

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Meanwhile, the National Bureau of Investigation Director Melvin Matibag on Wednesday said that the agency conducted an autopsy on the body of the Grade 4 student. He added that the findings would take two weeks to be completed.  /jpv

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