A district-wide Vitamin-A Supplementation Campaign will commence on Wednesday in Varanasi, following directives from the National Health Mission and the Family Welfare Department of Uttar Pradesh. The Health Department aims to administer Vitamin-A doses to 3,92,921 children aged between 9 months and 5 years. Additionally, Iron Folic Acid (IFA) syrup will be distributed to children aged 6 months to 59 months.
Importance of Vitamin-A for Children
Chief Medical Officer Dr Mukesh Kumar emphasized that Vitamin-A is essential for children's eyesight, immunity, and overall physical development. He warned that deficiency increases the risk of infections and other health complications. He urged parents and guardians to bring their children to the nearest health centre or designated session site to receive the prescribed dose during the campaign.
IFA Syrup to Combat Anaemia
District Immunization Officer Dr SS Kannaujia stated that IFA syrup will be distributed alongside Vitamin-A supplementation to prevent anaemia among children. He explained that iron deficiency hampers both physical and mental development, and regular IFA syrup intake can significantly reduce anaemia prevalence. He assured that adequate medicine stocks and logistical arrangements are in place at all Community Health Centres (CHCs), Primary Health Centres (PHCs), and sub-centres across the district. Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs), ASHA workers, and Anganwadi workers have received necessary guidelines for effective campaign implementation.
Awareness and Community Participation
District Health Education and Information Officer Harivansh Yadav noted that extensive awareness activities are underway to publicize the campaign. Health workers are conducting door-to-door visits in rural and urban areas to educate families about the importance of Vitamin-A supplementation and anaemia prevention. He stressed that active participation of parents and guardians is crucial for ensuring a healthy and malnutrition-free childhood. He appealed to all families to ensure eligible children receive both the Vitamin-A dose and IFA syrup on designated dates, helping them move towards a healthier, safer, and more empowered future.
