New Delhi, June 29: Health authorities across India conducted a nationwide Pulse Polio Immunisation Drive on Monday, administering oral polio vaccine (OPV) drops to children under the age of five as part of the country’s ongoing effort to maintain its polio-free status.
The campaign was organised by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in collaboration with state governments, local health departments, and thousands of frontline healthcare workers. Vaccination booths were set up at hospitals, schools, community centres, railway stations, bus terminals, and public places to maximise coverage.
Focus on Protecting Every Child
The immunisation drive aims to ensure that every eligible child receives the oral polio vaccine, regardless of previous vaccination status. Health officials stressed that repeated doses help strengthen immunity and prevent the transmission of the poliovirus.
Parents and guardians were encouraged to bring children below five years of age to the nearest vaccination centre and cooperate with health workers conducting door-to-door follow-up visits.
Thousands of Health Workers Deployed
The campaign saw the deployment of ASHA workers, Anganwadi workers, Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs), volunteers, and medical personnel, who worked across urban and rural areas to reach eligible children.
Special vaccination teams were also stationed at transport hubs and border checkpoints to immunise children travelling with their families.
India Continues Vigilance Against Polio
Although India was certified polio-free by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2014, authorities continue to organise Pulse Polio campaigns to prevent the reintroduction of the virus from regions where polio remains endemic.
Health experts said sustained immunisation and continuous surveillance remain essential to protecting children and maintaining the country’s polio-free status.
Public Awareness Campaign Strengthened
Alongside vaccination activities, awareness programmes were organised to educate parents about the importance of routine childhood immunisation and disease prevention.
Officials urged families not to miss scheduled vaccinations under the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP), describing vaccination as one of the most effective public health interventions.
Government Reaffirms Commitment
The Ministry of Health reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring universal immunisation coverage and strengthening disease surveillance across the country.
Officials said the nationwide campaign reflects India’s continued focus on safeguarding children’s health and preventing vaccine-preventable diseases through sustained public health initiatives.
Source: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India
Original Report:
https://main.mohfw.gov.in/
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