Category Archives: Health

Lice Busters NYC Expands to Larger Manhattan Facility Amid Post-Pandemic Surge in Demand

New York, NY, July 13, 2024 — Lice Busters NYC Relocates to Meet Surging Demand in Post-Pandemic Era.

Lice Busters, New York City’s premier lice removal service, announced today its plans to relocate to a larger facility within Manhattan to accommodate the increased demand for lice treatment services following the COVID-19 pandemic.
The company has experienced a significant surge in cases as children return to in-person schooling and social activities resume. This move will allow Lice Busters to expand its capacity and continue providing top-quality lice removal services to families throughout the five boroughs.

“We’ve seen an unprecedented increase in lice infestations since pandemic restrictions have eased,” said Daniel Harel, CEO of Lice Busters. “Our new location will enable us to help more families quickly and effectively, reducing the stress and discomfort associated with lice outbreaks.”

The relocation is scheduled for September, 2024 and will feature an expanded treatment area, additional staff, and enhanced safety protocols to ensure the well-being of both clients and employees. The new facility will also house an educational center to provide community workshops on lice prevention and treatment.

Harel added, “This move represents our commitment to the New York City community. As we grow, we remain dedicated to our mission of providing safe, effective, and compassionate lice removal services to families in need.”

Lice Busters will continue to offer its signature all-natural, pesticide-free treatments at the new location. The company’s exact new address will be announced in the coming weeks, with no interruption to services expected during the transition.

New Therapy Center Offering Individual Care for Children with Autism

Fresno, CA, July 12, 2024 — Butterfly Effects is thrilled to unveil its latest ABA Therapy center in Fresno, California, a cutting-edge facility set to open its doors on July 23, 2024. This 6,882 square feet center, situated at 5325 North Fresno Street, Suite 103, is not just a space but a haven designed to offer personalized, one-on-one care to children grappling with autism and other developmental hurdles. The center’s unique design is a testament to Butterfly Effects’ commitment to addressing and treating the deficits associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

The Fresno center will be under the expert guidance of a Board-Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), who will lead a team of Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) and other skilled technicians. This dedicated team will provide one-to-one treatment to children, ensuring personalized ABA therapy for children aged 2 through 6 during the day and 6 years old and older for after-school sessions. The team’s expertise guarantees tailored support that caters to each child’s unique needs.

Dr. Steve Woolf, the President of Butterfly Effects, brings over 30 years of experience in supporting families affected by ASD. He shares, “Our mission is to effect a socially meaningful change in the lives of children and families. The new Fresno center is a testament to our unwavering commitment to deliver high-quality, evidence-based ABA therapy in a developmentally appropriate environment, specially crafted to help children flourish.”

The CDC reports that 1 in 36 children in the U.S. has been identified with autism. Butterfly Effects is committed to helping children and families get the help they need. Using specialized teaching procedures based on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) principles, Butterfly Effects teaches children essential skills needed to gain personal independence and succeed in community and school environments. The center includes a home-based clinical component, where parents receive training on integrating the skills taught in the center into their child’s daily home routines.

Butterfly Effects provides ABA therapy services in centers, homes, schools, and communities in 12 states. Their work not only improves the lives of children but also empowers parents to make significant and lasting improvements in their children’s lives. Parents who want information about the new Fresno center can visit Butterfly Effects’ website at www.butterflyeffects.com or contact them at 888-880-9270.

Butterfly Effects is a leading provider of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy services, with 12 centers nationwide and in-home services for over 2,100 clients. It offers essential services for parents navigating the challenges of a child’s Autism diagnosis and serves as a critical resource for physicians making referrals. Known for its high-quality service and reputation, Butterfly Effects is also an attractive employer for RBTs, BCBAs, and technicians.

Age Well Care Launches In-Home Caregiving Services in Santa Barbara, Goleta and Surroundings

Santa Barbara, CA, July 11, 2024 –Age Well Care is committed to ensuring exceptional care through its comprehensive training programs for caregivers. These programs equip caregivers with the skills and knowledge necessary to provide high-quality care, including specialized training in chronic sickness programs, dementia care, Parkinson’s disease management, fall prevention, and transitional care. By offering continuous education and support, Age Well Care fosters a culture of excellence and compassion.

Holistic Approach to Diverse Needs
Age Well Care’s approach centers on a holistic model that emphasizes overall well-being. The services cater to individuals of all ages, from seniors to those recently discharged from hospitals or skilled nursing facilities. Specialized programs are tailored to meet diverse needs, including:

Dementia Program: Focused care for individuals with dementia, incorporating memory exercises and support strategies.
Parkinson’s Program: Specialized care plans to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Fall Prevention Program: Strategies and support to reduce the risk of falls and enhance safety at home.
Transitional Care Program: Assistance for individuals transitioning from hospital or skilled nursing facilities to home, ensuring a smooth and safe recovery.
Age-Specific Programs: Customized care plans for individuals at different life stages, addressing unique needs and challenges.

Personalized Care Plans
Understanding that each individual has unique needs, Age Well Care offers customized care plans developed in collaboration with family members and healthcare professionals. Services include:

Personal Care: Assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, and mobility.
Home Support: Light housekeeping, meal preparation, and errands.
Health Management: Medication reminders, coordination with healthcare providers, and wellness checks.
Companionship: Engaging activities, conversation, and emotional support.

Community-Focused Care
Age Well Care’s hyper-local approach ensures that caregivers are familiar with the communities they serve, enhancing the level of personalized care and integration with local resources. The Santa Barbara team is ready to support the community with dedicated and compassionate care.

Future Expansion Plans
In addition to the Santa Barbara launch, Age Well Care is pleased to announce plans to expand into new territories soon. This growth strategy aims to bring exceptional services to more communities, ensuring that individuals everywhere have access to the care needed to live independently and with dignity.

TPAG and CII Join Hands to Combat Thalassemia on World Thalassemia Day

New Delhi, Delhi, India  On World Thalassemia Day, Thalassemia Patients Advocacy Group (TPAG) proudly announces its collaboration with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) for a groundbreaking initiative aimed at addressing the growing burden of thalassemia in India. This partnership marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to combat thalassemia and ensure the well-being of individuals affected by this inherited blood disorder.

Thalassemia, a condition characterized by insufficient production of hemoglobin, poses a significant health challenge in India, with an estimated 100,000 patients and an alarming annual incidence of 10,000–15,000 children born with thalassemia major. Recognizing the urgent need for action, TPAG and CII have united under the Safe Blood Campaign to organize a series of voluntary blood donation camps tailored specifically for thalassemia patients.

Anubha Taneja-Mukherjee, Member Secretary of TPAG, expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “Under Safe Blood Campaign, CII and Thalassemia Patients Advocacy Group (TPAG) have come together to organize a series of voluntary blood donation camps for transfusion-dependent thalassemia patients in government hospitals in Delhi.” She emphasized the significance of these camps, timed to coincide with World Thalassemia Day (8th May) and World Blood Donor Day (14th June), in promoting safe blood practices and preventing transfusion-transmitted infections.

To further enhance the safety of donated blood, TPAG urges the government to prioritize the implementation of Nucleic Acid Testing (NAT) screening nationwide. This advanced screening method can detect HIV 1 and 2, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C, ensuring that only safe blood is transfused to patients. TPAG advocates for the establishment of stringent blood laws to enforce these vital screening protocols across the country.

While acknowledging India’s potential for groundbreaking research in thalassemia treatment, TPAG emphasizes the need for regulatory evolution to align with international standards. Despite recent advancements, hemoglobinopathies continue to strain the healthcare system, highlighting the importance of ongoing research, improved accessibility to screening methods, and the exploration of curative options like gene therapy.

As the fight against thalassemia progresses, TPAG calls for collective action from healthcare professionals, policymakers, NGOs, and the public. Early detection through genetic testing, modernization of healthcare infrastructure, and increased access to blood banks are crucial steps towards reducing the burden of thalassemia and improving the quality of life for affected individuals.

TPAG remains committed to advocating for the prevention and treatment of thalassemia and invites stakeholders from all sectors to join in this vital mission.

OMRON Healthcare India and AliveCor Partner to Empower People to Fight Heart Disease at Home with Portable ECG & Atrial Fibrillation (Afib) Monitoring Devices

11th July 2024  New Delhi, Delhi, India  OMRON Healthcare India, the Indian arm of the Japanese global leader in medical equipment for home health monitoring and treatment, has announced its collaboration with AliveCor India, the Indian subsidiary of the global leader in FDA-cleared, CE marked and CDSCO approved personal electrocardiogram (ECG) technology. With this partnership, OMRON Healthcare India now offers AI-based handheld ECG technology besides being a top blood pressure monitor player in India.

This collaboration, marking a significant milestone in OMRON’s “Going for Zero” vision to enhance cardiovascular health awareness and prevent incidents, brings forth devices including the first home BPM+ECG Monitoring FDA cleared Device (blood pressure monitor with AliveCor ECG capability in a single device) for early CVD (Cardiovascular Disease) detection and management and AliveCor’s FDA-cleared world’s most clinically-validated and pocket-sized personal ECGs. These devices instantly detect various arrhythmias, including atrial fibrillation (Afib), bradycardia, tachycardia, and more.

OMRON Healthcare has been at the forefront of hypertension management for almost half a century, pioneering innovative solutions to tackle this silent threat. However, as time has advanced, OMRON has come to realize the necessity of expanding its scope beyond hypertension. With a deeper dive into cardiovascular health, the company has unearthed the crucial role of Afib as a significant contributor to stroke and cardiovascular disease risk. Furthermore, hypertension is one of the leading risk factors for the development of AFib.

Afib disrupts the normal heartbeat and causes small & irregular vibrations in the heart, leading to the collection of blood inside. This can create a clot in the heart, which can travel to the brain, and cause a stroke. “Stroke risk is 3.4 times higher with hypertension, but it is 5 times higher with Afib, and so if people frequently have Afib, they may face a stroke shortly. This signifies that monitoring both ECG and blood pressure at home and keeping the doctor informed is crucial for the early management of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular health conditions like stroke, “says Tetsuya Yamada, Managing Director, OMRON Healthcare India.

India has more than 220 million people who suffer from high blood pressure, but a WHO study showed that only 15% of them receive treatment and 5% of them use a digital BP monitor. This implies that most of them are unaware of their condition, or they don’t get the proper treatment. If this is the case for hypertension monitoring, one can estimate that the gap for ECG monitoring will be enormous.

Elaborating on the collaboration with AliveCor, Tetsuya Yamada further added, “Guided by our vision” – “Going for Zero,” to eliminate cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease episodes, we are collaborating with like-minded organizations such as AliveCor to provide new technologies that enhance accuracy, quality, and accessibility of home as well as remote patient monitoring, empowering individuals to manage their conditions effectively. The collaboration will also help to answer one of the underlying social issues which is the limited number of cardiologists in the country. With these innovative devices, we can cut down on the waiting period for ECG measurement and also enhance accessibility which will help the patients keep their doctors and caregivers informed in a convenient and real-time manner to make them make more informed and better decision-making for cardiovascular health management.”

Anuj Seth, Managing Director, of AliveCor India said on the occasion, “At AliveCor, delivering cutting-edge technology that revolutionizes cardiac care through mobile technology is ingrained in our ethos. We are dedicated to expanding access to remote patient care to reach as many individuals as possible. Partnering with OMRON Healthcare India allows us to extend the reach of our products to more patients, thereby saving more lives.”

Products

OMRON COMPLETE – ECG Machine + BP Monitor

• First FDA-cleared home monitoring device integrating both blood pressure monitoring and ECG capabilities into a single unit, aimed at early detection and management of Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs). It features advanced technology for accurate and reliable readings, as well as a user-friendly interface and compact design for easy use at home or on the go for both individuals and professionals.

KardiaMobile®

• A single-lead personal ECG monitoring product that records a medical-grade electrocardiogram (ECG) on smartphone in 30 seconds anytime, anywhere.
• It is FDA-cleared, CE marked & CDSCO approved. It has been clinically validated to be an accurate and reliable device to monitor the electrical activity of the heart with AI technology.
• AliveCor’s Kardia technology is the first FDA-cleared AI-enabled determinations of the heart rhythm to aid patients and clinicians in the early detection of atrial fibrillation (Afib), the most common arrhythmia and Afib associated with a highly-elevated risk of stroke.
• The report can be saved and shared safely and easily over the phone with the doctor.

KardiaMobile® 6L

• A Bluetooth-enabled ECG device that captures 6 times the heart data as compared to single-lead ECG giving you and your doctor a more detailed view of your heart.
• Easy to record an ECG in 30 seconds anytime, anywhere, it is the first and only FDA-cleared six-lead personal ECG. Also, CE-marked and CDSCO approved, it can fit inside a pocket and detect more arrhythmias than any other personal ECG device.
• It offers physicians six views into a patient’s heart instead of one and can detect atrial fibrillation, bradycardia, tachycardia, sinus rhythm with supraventricular ectopy, sinus rhythm with premature ventricular contractions, and sinus rhythm with wide QRS, in addition to normal heart rhythm.
• One can record, save, and share the report easily and safely over the phone with one’s doctor for better and informed disease management. Apt for professional use too.

Rosario S. Cassata of the Cassata Foundation Proudly Supports the Northwell Health Foundation and Huntington Hospital on Long Island, NY

Huntington, NY, July 10, 2024 –For over 8 years, Rosario and Carolyn Cassata of The Cassata Foundation have proudly supported the Northwell Health Foundation and Huntington Hospital on Long Island

Their generous contributions have helped fulfill their mission of providing comprehensive care and survivorship services for cancer patients.

The Northwell Health Foundation aims to improve hospitals and clinical programs, accelerate research, and grow its endowment. Each donation helps advance new and innovative treatments, bringing them closer to potential cures for patients under their care.

Rosario S. Cassata has worked closely with Huntington Hospital over the years, providing meals for the hospital staff and donating thousands of KN95 masks during the COVID-19 pandemic. This unwavering support has been crucial during challenging times.

Huntington Hospital’s outstanding quality of care is reflected in its prestigious 5-star rating from the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) in their 2022 rankings. This achievement places the hospital in the top 10% nationwide, underscoring its commitment to delivering exceptional healthcare to the community.

Pictured Dr. Fitterman, Tara Ruocco, Carolyn Cassata, Rosario S. Cassata, Karen Larkin.

Gut Microbiota Diets Boost Effectiveness of Anti-Diabetic Medications, Study Finds

5th July 2024  Bangalore, Karnataka, India  A first-of-its-kind clinical trial in India shows remarkable results for people with diabetes. The trial was conducted using BugSpeaks, a flagship technology of Leucine Rich Bio, India’s first microbiome-based company. BugSpeaks is a gut microbiome profiling test that provides nutritional recommendations based on the individual’s gut microbiota profile. With India being called the diabetes capital of the world housing more than 101 million people with diabetes, the results of this study are groundbreaking for the prevention and management of diabetes.

The clinical trial included 30 Indian adults in the age group 42-65, both male and female, with hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol). Study subjects were divided into two groups: one received the BugSpeaks-based personalized diet and the other a regular diet for 3 months. The patients who were given a BugSpeaks-based personalized diet showed excellent results across various parameters when examined on day 90 of the study. Their average HbA1c levels were brought down from 8.30 to 6.67, systolic blood pressure was reduced by 14%, and CRP levels, a marker of inflammation, were decreased by 20%. The study has been uploaded onto a preprint server MedRxiv and is undergoing peer review in an International scientific journal.

Speaking on the promising results of the clinical trial, Dr Debojyoti Dhar, Co-founder & Director (Business Development and Innovation), Leucine Rich Bio, and the lead author of the study says, “In this study, we have highlighted the positive effect of gut microbiota based personalized nutrition on hyperglycaemia, hypertension, and inflammation markers. This “proof of concept” clinical trial shows that BugSpeaks based nutritional modulation of the gut microbiota can impact the health positively and can supplement medication for diseases like type 2 diabetes.”

He adds, “We plan to conduct more such trials in the coming months for other diseases for which we have anecdotal evidence. Gut microbiota modulation through nutrition can provide a new dimension in the precision or personalized healthcare paradigm and this study is a step towards that direction.”

The study also found that the number of beneficial microorganisms like Phascolarctobacterium succinates, Bifidobacterium angulatum, and Levilactobacillus brevis, increased two-fold and a similar decrease was observed in non-beneficial species like Alistipes finegoldii and Sutterella faecalis. Maintaining the balance of gut microbiota is important as an imbalance, also known as dysbiosis, can cause or aggravate different diseases including but not limited to digestive issues such as inflammatory bowel syndrome, mental health issues like anxiety and depression, and menstrual problems.

Dr. Dhar has previously published two research reviews in renowned peer-reviewed scientific journals: one on the possible link between the gut microbiota and COVID-19 (Virus Research Journal) and another one on the potential impact of nutritional modulation of the gut microbiota in dealing with mental health issues during COVID-19 (Frontiers of Neuroscience journal).

Happiest Health Appoints Dr Sreenivasan Narayana as President & CEO of Healthcare Services Division

4th July 2024  Bengaluru, Karnataka, India Happiest Health announced the appointment of Dr Sreenivasan Narayana as President & Chief Executive Officer of the knowledge, health, and wellness enterprise’s new division – Healthcare Services. This will help Happiest Health to strengthen its offerings in the healthcare services sector.

Dr. Sreenivasan Narayana is an ENT surgeon who has worked in renowned healthcare organizations such as the Apollo Hospitals Group and Narayana Health. He also founded Doctree Health, a start-up aimed at affordable treatments. Dr Sreenivasan completed his postgraduate program in management at the Indian School of Business, Hyderabad, where he undertook a full semester exchange MBA program at The Wharton School, USA.

Speaking on the appointment, Davis Karedan, co-chairman of Happiest Health, said, “We are pleased to welcome Dr Sreenivasan (Sreeni) to the Happiest Health team. His appointment represents a significant milestone as we expand our presence in the health and wellness sector. With the appointment of Sreeni, we have filled all our 4 division head positions at Happiest Health: knowledge, diagnostics, healthcare, and wellness.”

Dr Sreenivasan Narayana expressed enthusiasm about his new role, stating, “I am delighted to be a part of the Happiest Health family. The company’s goals and vision for healthcare in the country resonate strongly with my own, and I believe we can accomplish a lot together. I look forward to working with the fantastic team and taking Happiest Health to greater heights.”

Ashok Soota, Chairman of Happiest Health, said, “Dr. Sreenivasan joins Happiest Health with a wealth of expertise, experience, and ideas. The synergy between our knowledge, diagnostics, healthcare, and wellness businesses will help Happiest Health to progress towards its goal of doing an IPO in 6 years.”

Be Well Hospitals Pvt. Ltd. Hosts Third Inter-Unit Sports Gala Meet 2024 in Chennai

4th July 2024 Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India  Be Well Hospitals Pvt. Ltd., a pioneer in innovative advanced healthcare solutions, proudly announces the successful completion of its third “Inter-Unit Sports Gala Meet 2024” held at Chennai YMCA Ground, Nandhanam, Chennai.

This event, marking the 13th anniversary of Be Well Hospitals, saw enthusiastic participation from 200 players representing various units across the Be Well Group. The day was filled with camaraderie, friendly competition, and celebration, reinforcing the spirit of unity and teamwork among the group of hospitals.

Be Well conducts inter-unit sports meet within a hospital group to bring forth numerous positive outcomes like Promoting Team Spirit and Unity, Improving Physical and Mental Health, Boosting Morale and Motivation, Promoting Work-Life Balance, Building a Positive Organizational Image, Encouraging Healthy Competition, Fun and Enjoyment. Participating in sports meets offered all Be Welliansa chance to have fun and enjoy themselves outside of their regular duties and as a stress buster.

The two-day Sports Gala Meet has become a highly anticipated event in the Be Well Hospitals calendar, fostering a sense of community and promoting a healthy lifestyle among its employees. This year’s event featured a range of sports and activities, Badminton, Carrom Board, Chess, Cricket, Ring Ball, Volleyball, and Relay providing a platform for employees to showcase their athletic skills and enjoy a day of fun and fitness.

As a special gesture, many special guests graced the event and inaugurated every game to motivate and inspire Be Williams.

• Mr. K.B. Arun Karthik – Wicket Keeper, Batsman, Ranji Trophy, IPL & TNPL Cricketer – Highlighted the importance of sports in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
• Dr. K. Anbarasi – MD, DMRT, CCEPC, Senior Consultant – Oncology- Appreciates the strong Women Be Wellians representation in all games
• Dr Santhosh Jacob MBBS., DNB., Mch, DABRM. Phd., Orthopedic Surgeon & Internet Personality- Gave an overview of how to avoid sports injury and what’s to be done as first aid for any sports injury
• Mr. A. Manoharan – International Volleyball Player, Manager, Indian Bank- Gave his high regards to Be Well for making Be Wellians encourage to play Volley Ball and keep this sports glory high.
• Mr. L.M. Manoj – National Team Volleyball Player, Asian Games Player- Appreciated the enthusiasm shown by Be Wellians
• Ms. Nithya K – Motivational Speaker & Trainer for UPSC Students, Shankar IAS Academy- Encouraged all participants to give it their best and advise on living a healthy life

On Day 2 Be Well launched a Tree Plantation Initiative for the 13th Anniversary of Be Well Hospitals symbolizing its commitment to environmental sustainability, community well-being, and a healthier future for all. This was done in association with Vidhaikalam Trust- which conducts tree plantation activities every Sunday in various places across Chennai, Pudukottai, and the entire Tamil Nadu.

Be Well Hospital Group’s Third Inter-Unit Sports Gala Meet 2024 concluded with a grand closing ceremony, graced by Chief Guest Actor Prashanth. The event featured a prize-giving ceremony to honor the winners of the sports competition.

Actor Prashanth, Prashanth Thiagarajan, often hailed as the “Top Star” and “KathalIlavarasan” (Prince of Love), is a renowned figure in the Tamil film industry. With a career spanning over three decades, Prashanth has demonstrated remarkable versatility and skill, earning him a special place in the hearts of moviegoers.

Beyond his on-screen achievements, Prashanth is also known for his humility and professionalism, qualities that have earned him respect within the industry. The “Top Star” is truly a gem in the crown of Indian cinema.

Be Wellians were inspired and so happy to receive the prizes from Mr. Prashanth. He gave a very eloquent speech to all Be Wellians to take good care of their health. He was impressed and said he would like to come and participate as a player in the next year sports meet.

Dr. C.J. Vetrievel – Founder, Chairman, and Managing Director – Be Well Hospitals quoted “As Be Well Hospitals continues to grow and innovate in the healthcare sector, events like these highlight the organization’s commitment to employee well-being and engagement. The Sports Gala Meet not only celebrates the achievements of the past year but also looks forward to future successes and milestones.”

Self Care for New Moms and Kids Under Five, an Initiative by Reckitt Joins Forces with the Government of India in Its Stop Diarrhoea Campaign

July 3, 2024 8, New Delhi, Delhi, India : Reckitt, world’s leading consumer health and hygiene company, under its Self Care for New Moms and Kids under 5 initiative, is proud to align with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare’s ‘Stop Diarrhoea Campaign’. Launched last week by Hon’ble Shri J.P. Nadda, Union Minister, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, the campaign aims to attain zero child deaths due to Diarrhoea in India.

In many states, Diarrhoeal illnesses in childhood remains a leading cause of death for children under the age of five years, accounting for 5.8% of all under-five fatalities nationwide (Cause of Death Statistics 2017-19, Sample Registration System of Registrar General of India). Every year, Diarrhoea causes about 50,000 deaths in children in the nation. According to NFHS 5, the prevalence of Diarrhoea in children under five is 7.3%; while only 60.6% received ORS and 30.5% received zinc. In 68.9% of cases, a medical facility or provider was consulted.

To address this issue, Reckitt in partnership with Plan India through the initiative – Self Care for new moms and kids under five, is promoting the use of ORS and Zinc while enhancing hygiene and sanitation through the six steps of handwashing for children under the age of five. The two-month campaign will concentrate on engaging and educating community members across the states of Maharashtra, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan through highlighting the importance of handwashing, conducting ORS demonstrations, community involvement, proactive measures, and distribution of essential diarrhoea kits.

Commenting on the campaign, Gaurav Jain, Executive Vice President, Reckitt – South Asia said, “At Reckitt, we are proud to have worked closely with the Government of India towards creating a ‘Swachh and Swasth’ India across our programs. Over the last 10 years, we have engaged students, teachers, parents, and communities to improve their overall health and well-being, successfully impacting lives of millions of children across India. To further strengthen our commitment, we are delighted to align with the Stop Diarrhoea Campaign, launched by the Government of India and work towards achieving zero child deaths due to Diarrhoeal illnesses. We look forward to the campaign and making progress together to build a healthier nation.”

Commenting on the campaign, Ravi Bhatnagar, Director, External Affairs and Partnerships, SOA, Reckitt said, “Diarrhoea continues to be the key cause to death of children under five years of age in many states. At Reckitt, we are committed to the holistic welfare of children, especially with poor socio-economic backgrounds. We are proud to align with the Government of India’s Stop Diarrhoea Campaign. Through this campaign, we aim to further our commitment of achieving zero child deaths caused due to Diarrhoea by raising awareness about the use of ORS and Zinc and adopting proactive health measures for Diarrhoea prevention. This step will further enhance our determination to build a healthier future for young children of our country.”

Mohammed Asif, Executive Director, Plan International (India Chapter), stated, “Through the convergence of our ‘Self Care for New Moms and Kids Under 5’ initiative with the ‘STOP Diarrhoea’ Campaign, we are proud to join forces with the Government to eliminate diarrhoea. We hold a shared mission to promote hygiene, raise awareness about the use of ORS and Zinc for diarrhoea prevention, and engage mothers and communities in proactive health measures. Together, we are taking significant strides towards creating a healthier tomorrow for all.”

Over the tenure of two-months of the campaign, Self Care for new moms and kids under five will focus on establishing advocacy and communication at district level across target states by generating awareness via capacity-building sensitization sessions of frontline workers, Nukkad Natak, rallies, posters and IEC materials. To maximize the reach of the campaign and impart knowledge around Diarrhoea and its causes, various activations will be introduced based on intersectoral convergence, especially to target blocks in rural areas. It involves all line departments such as WCD, Drinking Water and Sanitation, PHED, Rural Development, Panchayati Raj and Education, and development partners. The campaign brings together 4 thronged approach of – ORS and zinc promotion, strengthening facilities, advocacy and communication and intersectoral convergence through members from the Indian Academy of Paediatrics (lAP), Indian Medical Association (IMA), NGOs, and CSOs to achieve the goal.

The campaign was kicked off with an inaugural event in Gir Somnath, Gujarat in collaboration with district administration., in the presence of District Collector Shri D D Jadeja, Resident Additional Collector Mr Rajesh Aal, Chief District Health officer Dr Arun Roy and other officials from the Health Department. District Collector, Gir Somnath, Shri D D Jadeja emphasised the importance of the campaign, recalling the Covid period and noting that while Covid has taught us about hand washing, there is still a need to focus on hygiene as a part of daily life. Similar campaigns and community events are lined up in the intervention states to support Government of India’s initiative.

During the run of the campaign, community-level meetings on WHO’s 7-point plan for mothers will be organized, Diarrhoea kits will be distributed, and key focus will be on raising awareness through utilizing audio-video tools to educate the audience on Diarrhoea management. These steps will further strengthen the existing interventions of the campaign and help eradicate Diarrhoea from the root level.