COTONOU, April 27 (Xinhua) -- Benin on Monday launched a campaign to combat schistosomiasis and intestinal worms, targeting about 1.5 million children aged five to 14 across 11 of the country's 12 departments.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Health, the campaign features the distribution of preventive medicines in more than 52 communes nationwide.

"Free drug distribution sessions will take place from April 27 to 29, 2026, in schools for enrolled children and in communities for those not attending school," the statement said.

Minister of Health Benjamin Hounkpatin called on stakeholders in primary and secondary education, community leaders and local officials to mobilize for the success of the campaign. He also urged parents to allow their children to receive the treatment.

"Treating our children against schistosomiasis and intestinal worms promotes their growth, intellectual development and academic performance, while maximizing the returns on investments made in their future," Hounkpatin was quoted as saying in the statement.

According to the National Program for the Control of Communicable Diseases, schistosomiasis, endemic in several regions of Benin, is the second most significant parasitic disease after malaria. If left untreated, this neglected tropical disease can lead to serious complications and even death. ■