What Matters for the ChildrenMassive Parasite Eradication
One of the most insidious threats to the children is parasites in the foods that they eat. Unfortunately they have not been taught to wash everything they eat before eating it. Children also neglect to wash their hands regularly which adds to the problem as well. Hygiene is a continuous challenge.
As such, most of the children are infected with at least one form of parasitic worm. In 3 different studies that we were party to, infestation of parasites ranged from 93% to 97% of all children. Parasites are responsible for the stunted growth, slow growth rates, mental and physical deficiencies, anemia and malnutrition and slowly cause the ultimate death which may take years to effect. One 14 year old girl that was examined was found to have eight various parasites in her body. The World Health Organization has recommended the medicine Albendazole to be given to the children as a primary solution. It is an over-the-counter medicine and non- hazardous when taken as recommended. Interestingly, it interrupts the reproduction of parasites by inhibiting the DNA strands from dividing in the nucleus of the cells. This process only focuses on the DNA of parasitic cells and does not affect human cells. At a cost of just eleven cents per child, it is incredibly cost effective and successful in battling this malady. Ironically, few pharmacies carry sufficient amounts of it because the demand for it is low. We have literally invaded many pharmacies and demanded every box of Albendazole that they have. Reactions have been varied. The local hospital insisted that we meet with the director of the hospital and obtain special permission to buy mass quantities of Albendazole and secure certification from the Ministry of Health. Considering every other pharmacy was happy to sell us as much as we asked for, we considered this obstruction just another hurdle that we endure and have endured for years, while trying to serve the children living in destitution of Ancash Peru. Still, with our focus on 3000 children served this year, we need funds to buy mass quantities of Albendazole for the eradication of parasites as far as we can manage. Can we count on your support to make this happen? |
VolunteerMore of What MattersHow You Can Help |