Haryana to set up helpline after 900 children take ill

The Haryana government Wednesday directed the setting up of a helpline to assist students who show any side-effects after being administered the iron-folic acid tablets during the state-wide campaign.

"The National Rural Health Mission, Haryana, will set up a helpline to guide those needing help in case of any side-effects, following the consumption of iron and folic acid tablets during the ongoing campaign in the state. The helpline number will be made functional from next Monday," a government spokesman said here Wednesday.

A meeting, chaired by state Education Minister Geeta Bhukkal, was held here Wednesday after it was reported that nearly 900 children in government schools have shown side-effects after taking the tablets, and needed medical attention.

Bhukkal directed the officers to educate teachers that these tablets be given to the children after the mid-day meal. She said that iron folic acid tablets were being given to combat anaemia among children.

NRHM director Rakesh Gupta said that about 16 lakh (1.6 mn) students of classes VI to XII were administered the iron tablets during the programme.

"There were some side-effects, but a majority of the students did not show the side effects," he said. "The 100 mg tablets are being given weekly after consultation with the experts of the medical fraternity," Gupta said.