SRINAGAR: In a concerted effort to eradicate poliomyelitis and protect millions of children, various districts across Jammu and Kashmir have launched intensified Pulse Polio Immunization campaigns, targeting children below five years of age. The campaigns emphasize community participation, comprehensive coverage, and the importance of a polio-free future.
Budgam initiates campaign with flagship drive
In Budgam, Deputy Commissioner Athar Aamir Khan formally launched the Pulse Polio Immunization Programme at District Hospital Budgam, where he personally administered polio drops to children in the 0–5 years age group. The campaign will cover over 1.22 lakh children through booth-based and house-to-house vaccination drives. A total of 628 booths have been set up across the district, complemented by 8 transit vaccination points and 3 Mela Bazar booths to reach children in transit and public gathering areas. The DC urged parents to cooperate and ensure every eligible child receives the vaccine, emphasizing the importance of complete coverage. Health officials reported that dedicated teams, including ASHA workers and volunteers, are actively engaged in the campaign, with house-to-house visits scheduled for July 29 to reach children missed at booths.
Bandipora launches with focus on universal coverage
Similarly, in Bandipora, Deputy Commissioner Indu Kanwal Chib inaugurated the campaign from NTPHC Quil Muqam, overseeing arrangements aimed at immunizing over 61,000 children in the 0–5 years age group. The district has established 338 vaccination booths and is implementing a two-day strategy—initially through institutional booths followed by door-to-door vaccination—to ensure no child is left unvaccinated. The DC urged parents and guardians to participate actively in the campaign, reiterating that every vaccinated child is a step toward a polio-free district.
Shopian emphasizes 100% vaccination
In Shopian, Additional District Development Commissioner Dr. Nasir Ahmed Lone launched the campaign at District Hospital Shopian, administering the first polio drops to a newborn. He appreciated healthcare workers’ dedication and called upon parents to bring every child below five years for vaccination. The campaign aims for 100% coverage through community participation and coordinated efforts, with health teams conducting house-to-house visits following initial institutional vaccination.
Baramulla targets 1.64 lakh children
In Baramulla, Chief Planning Officer Nisar Ahmad inaugurated the campaign at Urban Primary Health Centre (UPHC) Old Town Bagh-e-Islam. The district plans to vaccinate 1.64 lakh children, with officials emphasizing the importance of community cooperation. Dr. A.G. Raina, Chief Medical Officer, stressed the need for active public involvement to maintain a polio-free status and urged parents to ensure their children receive the oral polio vaccine.
Overall commitment to polio-free future
These district-level campaigns are part of a broader initiative to strengthen immunization coverage and eliminate poliomyelitis from the region. Health authorities have deployed extensive resources, including vaccination booths, transit points, and outreach teams, to ensure comprehensive coverage. Community participation remains pivotal to the success of these efforts, with officials reiterating their commitment to safeguarding children’s health and securing a polio-free future for Jammu and Kashmir.