Zunheboto, October 26 (MExN): In continuation of the week-long observation of Global IDD Prevention, sensitization cum awareness meeting was held with the salt traders on the theme ‘Iodised Salt: Trader’s responsibilities’ at CMO office on October 25.
A press note issued by Shekho Sophie, District Media Officer, CMO Office, Zunheboto stated that Dr CW Tungoe, Chief Medical Officer, Zunheboto sensitised the traders on the daily requirement of iodine which is 15 microgram per day and the sources of iodine such as sea fish, sea salt, cod liver oil and readily available iodized salt etc. He stressed on the various implications associated with deficiency of iodine such as goiter, mental retardation, speech defects, hearing defects, neuromuscular weakness, spontaneous abortion etc. They were made to understand that they are the vital link between iodized salt producers and consumers.
Dr Tungoe also emphasised that shopkeepers should stock and sell only iodized salt and also advised that sale of non iodized salt is banned under the provision of PFA Act 1954. He also shared about the responsibilities of every citizen to purchase and consume iodized salt only. After which Drug Inspector, Lutovi Phucho, gave a demonstration on qualitative iodized salt testing using test kit. All the participants signed a pledge to stock and sell only iodized salt.
District Health Society, Zunheboto organised an essay competition on observance of Global IDD Prevention Day at GHSS, Zunheboto on October 26.
Dr. Tungoe was the resource person. He highlighted about the importance of Iodized salt. Dr. Tungoe shared about some facts about Iodine Deficiency Disorders. He said that Iodine Deficiency Disorder occur in all most all the states & Union Territory of our country. He also said that Iodine is essential for the normal growth, development and functioning of both the brain and body. A pregnant woman who is deficient in iodine is likely to produce and abnormal child.
Viketol, DCM demonstrate how to test iodine content in salt. First prize was won by Libo (class 9), 2nd – Kiboka (class 9) and 3rd- Avika (class 9) respectively.
Further, IEC materials were distributed to the traders.
