The tragic case of Raya, a 3-4-old child from Sukabumi who recently died after suffering a severe worm infestation, serves as a powerful reminder to all parents about the importance of safeguarding their children’s health.

This was emphasized by Dr Ditia Gilang Shah Putra Rahim, SpA. MARS., a lecturer at the Faculty of Medicine, IPB University, and a child health expert. He reminded parents that children are gifts from God who must be cared for and protected.

“Do not let children suffer from malnutrition, be exposed to preventable diseases, or grow up without proper care. Teach children to live cleanly, regularly attend health clinics, complete their immunizations, and follow a routine deworming program,” he advised.

Reflecting on Raya’s case, Dr Gilang explained that the condition was caused by a chronic infection resulting from poor hygiene, inadequate nutrition, and improper parenting practices. “In this case, the worm infection had been ongoing for a long time. The child was likely exposed repeatedly to worm eggs in large quantities without adequate prevention or treatment,” di Gilang said.

He further noted that worm eggs can enter the body through food, drinks, contaminated soil, or unclean hands. When infections recur, the number of worms in the child’s body multiplies and can spread to internal organs.

“The main contributing factors are poor hygiene, poor-quality food, and parents with low levels of education who live in poverty. Together, these factors play a significant role,” he stressed.

He also explained that children suffering from malnutrition have weaker immune systems, making them more vulnerable to infections. Parenting practices that neglect personal hygiene, such as not encouraging handwashing or wearing shoes, further increase the risk. In addition, environments with poor sanitation, contaminated soil, and unclean water accelerate the spread of worm infestations.

Community Awareness and Government Responsibility

Considering Raya’s family background, where her mother was unable to care for her and her father was battling tuberculosis, Dr Gilang highlighted the crucial role of both the community and the government in preventing similar tragedies.

“The community must be attentive to the conditions of their neighbors. If there are children like Raya, families and neighbors should work together to seek medical treatment and ensure the child’s nutritional needs are met,” he said.

From the government’s side, he emphasized the need to strengthen child health screening systems through integrated health service posts, immunization programs, routine deworming every six months, and supplementary nutrition programs for malnourished children. “Children whose parents are unable to provide adequate care must receive special care and protection,” he added.

“If you see a child who is sick or neglected, immediately extend help or contact healthcare workers. With shared concern and responsibility, tragedies like this can and should be prevented,” he concluded. (Fj) (IAAS/LAN)

IPB University