By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, July 18: In a bid to bring down the under-five mortality, a district-level ‘Stop Diarrhoea Campaign’ was on Friday launched at Laitlyngkot PHC by the District Medical & Health Officer, East Khasi Hills.
According to a statement here, Sohra MLA Gavin Miguel Mylliem, who attended the programme as the chief guest, highlighted that 8% of the total budget of Meghalaya has been allotted to the health sector.
He also informed the gathering that the Health department has conducted various awareness initiatives from time to time and urged everyone present to spread the message within their families and communities to improve the overall health of the area.
He then appealed to the community leaders to encourage people to link their Aadhaar with MHIS to avail benefits during hospital treatments.
The MLA also expressed appreciation to doctors, nurses, Anganwadi workers, ANMs and all health workers who, despite challenges, continue to work tirelessly to improve the health of the people of Meghalaya.
On the other hand, Sohra CHC paediatrician Dr J. Nongrum raised awareness about the causes, symptoms and treatment of diarrhoea.
She stressed the importance of preventive measures such as proper handwashing, personal hygiene, and the use of ORS and Zinc in combating diarrhoea.
She then spoke about the importance of proper breastfeeding and healthy eating habits to protect children from diarrhoea and other illnesses.
Similarly, District Medical & Health Officer Dr A Kharduit underlined the significance of routine immunisation and vaccination in preventing diseases, disabilities and deaths caused by vaccine-preventable illnesses.
She pointed out that routine health screenings are vital for early disease detection and prevention, helping identify issues like high blood pressure, high cholesterol and certain cancers before they become serious.
The programme concluded with the MLA handing over an ambulance to Laitlyngkot PHC, which was then followed by a blood donation camp.
