The nationwide Vitamin A capsule and deworming tablets distribution campaign kicked off throughout the country from today.

Lamps being lit at the Maitighar Peace Mandala in memory of 28 people killed in the conflict during the Nepali month Ashoj, Tuesday evening, Oct 18 05. Vitamin ‘A’ drops being administered to a child during the National Vitamin ‘A’ Program in Kathmandu, Wednesday, October 19 05.

Vitamin A capsules will be distributed to nearly 3.6 million children from six months to five years and children between one to five years will be given deworming tablets.

Vitamin A distribution centers have been established at every ward of the country and more than 48 thousand female community health volunteers will be mobilized for the two day long campaign, according to reports.

The distribution of Vitamin A started in the country from 1993 in eight districts in the initial phase and was expanded throughout the 75 districts from 2002.

The vital medicine saves children from infectious diseases, as most of the children are ill-nourished, especially when it comes to vitamin A intake.

The campaign is reportedly saving as many as 30 thousand lives each year, according to government data.

The health ministry is distributing the Vitamin A capsules twice a year.