Running from October 14 to 21, 2024, the campaign targets children aged 5 to 14 at selected clinics, schools, and outreach points.
Nyanga District Medical Officer Dr. Majoni Muungani stated that seven wards with a high burden of intestinal worms and 23 wards affected by bilharzia will be reached.
"Children are at risk because they play in soil that may be contaminated. The major issue is that some community members lack access to toilets and defecate in open spaces, such as bushes or just outside. When children play in this soil, they risk contamination," Dr. Muungani explained.
A primary care nurse at Spring Valley Clinic, Mercy Mandiputse, reported a positive reception of the initiative among local residents.
"We are conducting mass drug administration to treat bilharzia. The program started on the 14th and will continue until the 21st. Children from the age of 2 will receive pills for intestinal worms, while administration for bilharzia will begin at age 5. The process has already started in Ward 24. Administration will take place at the clinic, and for those living farther away, there will be outreach points for medication," Mandiputse said.
Local community member Celina Donzvo emphasized the importance of the initiative, urging parents and grandparents to participate.
"Ensuring the health of our community is crucial. I encourage everyone to take advantage of this campaign to safeguard our children's health." Said Donzvo
This campaign is expected to significantly contribute to Zimbabwe's National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), specifically Goal 3, which focuses on improving health outcomes. By reducing the prevalence of bilharzia and intestinal worms, the initiative aims to decrease morbidity rates, enhance cognitive development, and increase educational attainment among children.
As the campaign progresses, health officials remain optimistic about its potential impact on reducing the prevalence of these preventable diseases in Nyanga District, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more productive population.
