The RVF has initiated programs to address the elimination of intestinal parasites in school-aged children in Azerbaijan Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.

To date, over 11 million individuals have received deworming treatment and hygiene education.  The programs both focus on regions that are underserved have high poverty rates. The medications used in the programs, mebendozol and albendazol, and praziquantel are safe, highly effective and inexpensive.

Children with worms suffer from reduced growth rates, learning problems and poor school attendance, malnutrition and anemia. The Foundation’s deworming programs aim to not only improve their health, but educational prospects as well.