The recent death of a Grade 4 student in Trece Martires City, Cavite, following a routine deworming activity has highlighted the critical issue of health personnel shortages in the country's schools.
The Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) Philippines has spoken out against the situation, stating that teachers should not be held responsible for the tragedy. For decades, schools have operated without sufficient numbers of school nurses, guidance counselors, and other essential professionals due to unresolved shortages of teachers and qualified education support personnel.
The country's healthcare workforce has been flagged as having significant gaps, with 94,000 doctors and 196,000 nurses in short supply to meet the ideal threshold. As a result, the role of Mass Drug Administration Provider (MDAP) often falls to teachers, who may not have the necessary health background to administer deworming drugs to students.
According to the Department of Education, MDAP administers deworming tablets to prevent worms from moving through the body, killing parasites. While adverse effects from taking the medication are rare, students may experience symptoms such as abdominal discomfort, headache, and nausea. In cases of adverse effects, students are advised to rest for a few hours and drink water.
Seven other learners have reportedly felt the adverse effects after taking the deworming tablet, but have since recovered and returned to school. The Department of Education has committed to understanding what happened and is working closely with health authorities to investigate the incident.
The agency has also announced that it will review its health and safety protocols to ensure learners' safety and well-being. It is providing emotional, psychological, and logistical support to the family of the deceased student and assures everyone that the safety and well-being of learners remain its highest priority.
