In an interview with Nina Corpuz on DZMM's "Magandang Gabi Dok", Dr. Jun Belizario of the College of Public Health of the University of the Philippines explained that new studies show that adolescents are also at risk of parasitic infection.
The risk is higher for females who experience blood loss through menstruation.
"Lumalabas sa data na even among adolescents, mataas ang infection rate. Kaya pinag-aaralan ng Department of Health (DOH) na isama na ang high school [students], especially adolescent females na nawawalan ng dugo through menstruation," Belizario said.
Parasitic infections like trichinosis, schistosomiasis, and ring worm infection can cause females to lose more blood than normal.
According to Belizario, four to five children, or around 45% of all public school children are are infected with worms.
There are also specific areas in the country with around 80 to 90% of children suffering from parasitic infection.
This infection is often caused by poor hygiene and sanitation.
"Kakulangan sa sanitation. Open defecation promotes transmission ng mga bulate," Belizario said, adding that parasites that infect humans also come from other humans.
"Ang maduming kamay, kakulangan sa tubig, kontaminadong pagkain o tubig ay nagiging sanhi ng infection," he said.
The DOH provides free deworming medicines for children between the ages of 1 to 14. The agency also conducts deworming activities in all public schools twice a day.
Belizario explained that these medicines, which are candy flavored and chewable, are safe and effective for children.
Symptoms of parasitic infection include stomach pains, listlessness, stunting and malnutrition.
The doctor added that parasitic infection also affects school children's performance in school.
source: www.abs-cbnnews.com
