Polio Immunization Program Extends Support to Myanmarese Children in Manipur Relief Camps
HEALTH
Imphal: In a positive step towards ensuring the health and well-being of Myanmarese children seeking refuge in Manipur's Kamjong district, the "National Immunization Day, Intensified Pulse Polio Immunization Program 2024" was initiated on Sunday.
Health and Family Welfare Minister, Dr. Sapam Ranjan Singh, inaugurated the three-day program at the Family Welfare Training Centre in Imphal. Speaking about the initiative, he highlighted the government's commitment to reaching approximately 3.5 lakh children aged 0 to 5 years.
Officials reported that around 5700 Myanmarese refugees, who entered the Kamjong district illegally due to the military crackdown on rebel groups in their country, are currently residing in various villages. These refugees, identified through biometric details by state authorities, have been receiving essential services, including healthcare programs provided by the government.
Dr. Lucy Duidang, Chief Medical Officer of Kamjong district, revealed that out of the 590 Myanmarese children in relief camps eligible for polio vaccination, 415 received their inoculations on Sunday. The remaining children are scheduled to be covered in the coming days. Additionally, nine remote villages in Kamjong district were included in the program on its first day.
During the Imphal event, Dr. Ranjan emphasized India's vigilance despite being certified as a polio-free country by the World Health Organization in 2014. He stressed the need for a coordinated effort among stakeholders to raise awareness about immunization, citing the prevalence of polio in neighboring countries.
The minister acknowledged the crucial role of the media in spreading awareness and urged the fraternity to actively participate in promoting the program. He emphasized that timely administration of vaccines is a collective responsibility that ensures the well-being of society, especially during times of crisis.
Dr. Ranjan appealed to the media to extend its reach to every household in the state, contributing to the success of the immunization program and safeguarding the health of future generations.