Solan: The Health and Family Welfare Department, Solan, organised an awareness camp at Durga Public School as part of International Deaf Awareness Week.
The programme focused on raising awareness among students and teachers about the causes, prevention, early detection and treatment of hearing loss, as well as the rights of deaf and hearing-impaired individuals.
ENT specialist Dr Supriya Atwal explained that hearing loss can affect people of all age groups. In children, it may result from congenital conditions, ear infections, prolonged exposure to loud noise, ear injuries, certain medicines and other health-related factors.
She stressed the importance of timely hearing tests and early detection in children. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, including hearing aids and rehabilitation services, can help reduce difficulties in a child’s development and education.
Dr Atwal advised people to avoid putting unnecessary objects in their ears, seek timely treatment for ear infections and avoid prolonged exposure to loud sounds. She also cautioned against listening to music at high volume and excessive or improper use of earphones and headphones.
She also highlighted the rights of deaf and hearing-impaired people and urged everyone to avoid discrimination and treat them with respect and sensitivity. She said sign language, written communication or other suitable methods should be used when required.
The school principal appreciated the initiative and said such health awareness programmes are useful and informative for students. He urged the department to organise similar programmes at the school in the future.
The department appealed to people not to ignore signs of hearing loss and to seek timely examination and consultation from a specialist.
