More than 16 million children and women across Odisha will receive deworming doses as part of a month-long health drive set to launch on February 10, a senior health official confirmed on Wednesday.

The Directorate of Family Welfare, in collaboration with UNICEF, will implement the initiative to improve the health and nutritional status of children and women in the state. The campaign aims to combat parasitic infections that can hinder physical and cognitive development, particularly in young children.

Family Welfare Director Sanjukta Sahoo stated that age-appropriate Albendazole doses (either suspension or tablets) will be administered to children and young women at schools and Anganwadi centers. Teachers, Anganwadi workers, and ASHA workers will facilitate the distribution as part of the National Deworming Day (NDD) campaign.

The deworming drive is expected to play a crucial role in reducing malnutrition and improving overall public health. Health officials have urged parents and caregivers to ensure their children receive the medication to prevent infections and promote better growth and development.