Apr 19, Kathmandu - In a major health initiative, the government is administering Vitamin A supplements and deworming medication to children across Nepal on Baisakh 6. Under the National Vitamin A Program, the Ministry of Health and Population has also started providing deworming tablets alongside Vitamin A, according to the Department of Health Service’s Nutrition Division Chief, Lila Bikrama Thapa.

Approximately 2.2 million children aged 6 months to 59 months will receive Vitamin A capsules, while around 2 million children aged 1 to 5 years will be given deworming medication ‘Albendazole’. Local authorities have set up vaccination centers in suitable locations to facilitate the campaign. Nearly 52,000 female health volunteers and 15,000 health workers have been mobilized for this purpose.

Health experts emphasize that Vitamin A plays a vital role in improving vision, boosting immunity, and supporting the growth and development of children. The deworming medication aims to eliminate intestinal worms, prevent malnutrition, anemia, stomach pain, and diarrhea among children.

The Vitamin A program, initially launched in eight districts from 050 (Nepali calendar), has been nationwide since 059. Similarly, the deworming initiative, started in 13 districts from 056, was extended to all districts by 067. These free health interventions are conducted twice annually to ensure the well-being of Nepalese children.