Malawi holds Child Health Days campaign

As one way of promoting child health in the country Malawi government is holding a weeklong campaign known as Child Health Days (CHD) to serve hard to reach groups with maternal and child health services.

The campaign which started on 31st October will end on 4th November  and will be held in all districts, specifically all health facilities, outreach clinics as well as designated temporary sites.

According to a statement signed by Secretary for Health Mcphail Magwira, the campaign which is conducted twice a year is expected to contribute towards the reduction of child illnesses and deaths.

“The exercise will target all children aged 6 months to 5 years and women who have just given birth and are within 8 weeks of delivery,” said Magwira in the statement.

The activities during the week will among others include deworming which involves provision of Albendazole tablets that help to rid children of intestinal worms since these worms contribute to malnutrition.

The campaign will also involve Vitamin A supplementation which is vital for a child’s health, growth, immunity against diseases and good eyesight.

During the week, there will also be mass nutrition screening of all children, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers.

“These groups are particularly vulnerable to acute malnutrition, especially in view of the current hunger crisis. Through this exercise those diagnosed with acute malnutrition will be referred to appropriate treatment programs within the public health system,” reads the statement.