Andhra Pradesh Launches Polio Vaccination Campaign for 5.4 Million Children

The government of Andhra Pradesh is set to launch a comprehensive pulse polio vaccination campaign on December 21, 2023, aiming to administer polio drops to over 54 lakh (5.4 million) children under five years of age. This initiative reflects the state’s ongoing commitment to immunization and public health.

Health and Family Welfare Commissioner G. Veerapandian announced the campaign, stating that the official launch will take place at the Chief Minister’s camp office in Undavalli, led by N. Chandrababu Naidu. Simultaneously, Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav will kick off the program at an urban health center in Kakinada.

To ensure the success of the campaign, state health authorities have mobilized nearly 98.99 lakh doses of the vaccine. They have appointed nodal officers in each district to oversee the program’s implementation and ensure that the vaccination reaches every eligible child.

Yadav emphasized the importance of parental involvement, urging families to bring their children for vaccination and cooperate with health staff. Vaccination booths will be established across the state, staffed by Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs), Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs), and other health workers.

For children who are unable to receive the vaccine on the scheduled day, health personnel will conduct home visits to administer the polio drops on December 22 and 23. Additionally, transit teams will be deployed to various locations, including bus and railway stations, airports, and markets, to ensure comprehensive coverage.

Community Engagement and Vigilance

District Collector Dr. G. Lakshmisha highlighted the need for community engagement during a Pulse Polio Rally near the Old Government General Hospital in Vijayawada. He called on parents to ensure that all children under five receive their polio drops, noting that despite the elimination of the disease in India and Andhra Pradesh, vigilance remains crucial.

The rally was organized by the district medical and health department, with participation from various community organizations, including the Rotary and Lions Clubs, as well as the Indian Medical Association. Dr. Lakshmisha stated that the Pulse Polio program serves as a precautionary measure to safeguard the health of future generations.

He detailed that the vaccination drive will include booth-level immunization on December 21, followed by door-to-door outreach efforts on December 22 and 23. This initiative will be executed through a collaborative approach involving multiple departments, including medical and health, revenue, panchayati raj, municipal services, public transport, and Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS).

As the campaign unfolds, the Andhra Pradesh government aims to further enhance public awareness and participation, reinforcing the importance of vaccination in achieving a healthier future for children across the state.