The Department of Health (DOH) says nationwide deworming is safe and effective for children, and it is warning the public against misinformation following a reported death after a deworming activity. DOH statements issued on Thursday emphasize that Filipino children are vulnerable to soil-transmitted helminths, or intestinal worms, because they frequently come into contact with contaminated soil. The DOH says leaving worm infections untreated can lead to health problems such as poor nutrition, anemia, stunted growth, delayed learning, and reduced resistance to other illnesses, and may also affect school attendance. The warning follows the case of a Grade 4 student in Trece Martires City, Cavite, who was hospitalized on July 3 after experiencing vomiting following a routine deworming activity and later died the same day, according to reporting referenced by the outlets. In response, the DOH urges parents, guardians, schools, and communities to rely on verified information from the DOH and to support the campaign as a preventive measure.