Vitamin A supplementation camp in Erode from February 23 to 28

Collector S. Kandasamy has said that a Vitamin A supplementation camp will be conducted from February 23 to 28 (except Wednesday) at anganwadi centres and sub-health centres in the district.

In a release, the Collector said Vitamin A liquid would be administered to 1,09,118 children aged between six months and five years through 2,080 anganwadi centres and 378 sub-health centres. Studies indicate that 17.54% of the population in India is affected by Vitamin A deficiency, while the prevalence in the State stands at 7%.

The release said Vitamin A plays a vital role in the production of retinal pigments, enabling vision in low light and colour perception. It also helps maintain the epithelial tissues of the intestines, kidneys, respiratory tract, skin and eyes, strengthens immunity, and helps prevent certain epithelial cancers of the respiratory tract.

Vitamin A is found in dark green leafy vegetables, yellow fruits and vegetables, fish, meat, eggs, milk and fortified oils. Deficiency among children can lead to vision impairment, diarrhoea and severe respiratory infections. The supplementation drive is conducted twice a year to prevent such conditions.

Children aged six to 11 months will be given 1 ml of Vitamin A liquid, while those aged 12 months to five years will receive 2 ml. The Collector has appealed to parents to ensure that all children below five years receive the Vitamin A dose during the camp and benefit from the initiative, the release added.