LINGAYEN – The provincial government here will conduct the second round of Garantisadong Pambata Bakuna, Bitamina A, Breastfeeding, Purga sa Bulate slated from October 16-20, according to Dr. Jackson D. Soriano, OIC-provincial health officer.

“The immunization and vitamin supplementation activities are part of the intensified effort initiated by Gov. Victor E. Agbayani to eradicate malnutrition in the province and to safeguard the health of in-school and out-of-school children against ailments such as tuberculosis, diphtheria and measles,” Soriano said.

Agbayani stressed that economic development should go hand in hand with the delivery of basic social services such as health care and nutrition.

Soriano said mothers may bring their kids to health centers, out-patient department of government hospitals and day care centers to avail of the various services during the weeklong activity.

Major health services to be offered include vitamin A supplementation for six to 71-month-old children, pregnant and lactating mothers and children vulnerable to measles, persistent diarrhea, severe pneumonia and underweight children.

There will also be vaccination against BCG, DPT, OPV and MV for children aged a day to 11 months and 12-23 months.

Deworming activities will be undertaken for one to five-year old tots while supplements will be made available such as ferrous sulfate to infants (6-24 mos), preschoolers (25-71 months), and pregnant and lactating mothers.

Also to be conducted during the week are orientation on oral health and tooth brushing among children, household salt testing, health/nutrition education for mothers and caregivers on breastfeeding and implementation of milk code, importance of vitamin A, immunization, use of iodized salt and fortified foods, proper handwashing, promotion of healthy lifestyle and other health care tips. (Jennifer P. Domantay/PIO)