The National Deworming Day special campaign will be held across Erode district on August 10, with albendazole tablets to be distributed to more than 6.6 lakh eligible beneficiaries.A release from Collector S. Kandasamy said the campaign is being organised as per the directions of the State government to prevent soil-transmitted worm infections. The World Health Organisation estimates that 24% of the population in India is affected by such infections. In Tamil Nadu, the prevalence is estimated at 5–10%, while it is 39% among tribal communities.Roundworms, hookworms and whipworms are common intestinal parasites. Though infections may often be asymptomatic, severe cases can cause abdominal pain, diarrhoea, loss of appetite and weakness. Worm infestation can also lead to iron deficiency, anaemia, malnutrition and impaired physical development.In Erode district, albendazole tablets will be distributed through 2,080 anganwadi centres to children below five years, and through government, aided and private schools and colleges to students up to 19 years. A total of 5,44,350 beneficiaries up to 19 years and 1,21,715 women aged 20–30 years are expected to benefit. The campaign will involve 3,455 personnel. Children aged one to two years will receive 200 mg of albendazole, while those aged two to 19 years and eligible women aged 20–30 years will receive 400 mg. Pregnant and lactating women will be excluded.The Collector appealed to parents and eligible women to make use of the campaign. Those who miss the August 10 campaign will be given the tablets on August 17. The administration advised people to use toilets, wear footwear outdoors, maintain cleanliness, wash fruits and vegetables and practise hand hygiene to prevent worm infections. Published - August 08, 2026 07:35 pm IST