DOH: Deworming is safe, warns vs misinformation after student's death

The Department of Health (DOH) on Thursday said deworming remains safe and effective in protecting children and warned the public against misinformation following the death of a Grade 4 student.

DOH issued the statement as it urged the public to support the nationwide deworming activities in July.

"The deworming medicine used in the program, Albendazole, has been part of the country's public health program for nearly three decades and is recommended by the World Health Organization. It is generally safe and well tolerated," the Health Dept. said.

After deworming, DOH explained that children may experience mild and temporary side effects such as stomach pain, vomiting, fever, diarrhea, or skin rashes after taking the medicine.

"These reactions are expected in some cases, usually occur within the first few hours, and can be managed with proper medical guidance," the statement said.

EXPLAINER: What is deworming?

The Health Dept. has directed health workers and local government units to strictly follow safety protocols during school- and community-based deworming activities to ensure the safe administration of the medicine and proper management of any adverse events.

DOH further reminded the public to rely on verified information from the agency and to refrain from sharing unverified or misleading reports that may cause unnecessary fear and discourage the public from getting health protection.

Grade 4 learner Rex from Hugo Perez Elementary School-Annex in Trece Martires City, Cavite died after he fell ill following a school deworming activity.

The Philippine National Police is conducting a joint investigation with the Department of Education in connection with the student's death.

In a statement, the PNP Trece Martires Component City Police Station advised the public to avoid sharing unverified information related to the incident.

“Mahalaga pong hintayin ang resulta ng masusing imbestigasyon at iba pang kaukulang pagsusuri bago magbigay ng anumang konklusyon,” the statement read.

(It is important to await the results of a thorough investigation and other relevant examinations before drawing any conclusions.)

The Education Dept. likewise appealed to stay calm and refrain from making judgments until the investigation is concluded. —Mariel Celine Serquiña/RF, GMA News