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Nasir Ali
Srinagar: In 2014, India was declared polio-free, marking a significant milestone in global health. The eradication of polio in India stands as a testament to the nation’s determination, innovative strategies, and collective efforts.
India’s battle against polio was not without challenges. High population density, poor sanitation, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, and widespread poverty posed significant hurdles. Moreover, reaching remote and marginalized communities, where polio was most prevalent, proved to be a daunting task. Additionally, misconceptions and resistance to vaccination efforts in certain communities further complicated the eradication efforts.
The cornerstone of India’s polio eradication campaign was the implementation of National Immunization Days. During these campaigns, health workers went door-to-door, administering oral polio vaccine drops to children under five years of age. These mass vaccination drives aimed to ensure that every child received multiple doses of the vaccine, thereby boosting immunity and interrupting the transmission of the virus.
To address vaccine hesitancy and misinformation, extensive social mobilization and advocacy efforts were undertaken. Community engagement initiatives, involving local leaders, religious figures, and influencers, helped build trust and confidence in vaccination programs. Moreover, communication campaigns utilized various media channels to disseminate accurate information about polio and the importance of vaccination.
Recognizing the need for targeted interventions, high-risk areas with persistent polio transmission were identified and prioritized for intensified vaccination efforts. Special focus was placed on slums, migrant populations, and areas with low immunization coverage.
Meanwhile, Secretary Health and Medical Education, Dr Syed Abid Rasheed Shah underscored that every child under 5 years of age must be administered Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) on National Immunization Day (Pulse Polio) on March 3.
He said that India maintains polio free status since 2011 and to ensure that the country stays free of polio, all stakeholders must redouble their efforts. He called upon all stakeholders, including the general public to wholeheartedly participate in the National Immunization Day (NID) to ensure maintenance of polio free status of the country and Jammu & Kashmir.
He made these remarks during the State Task Force meeting regarding National Immunization Day to discuss the planning & implementation of activities for Pulse Polio scheduled on the 3rd of March 2024 across Jammu & Kashmir. The health department will administer OPV to all children in the age group of 0-5 in the arranged booths throughout the UT on 3rd March followed by house to house activity on 4th and 5th March while transit sites and special areas will be covered throughout the three days of immunization programme. In Jammu and Kashmir, around 19 lakh children will be inoculated during the three days from March 3 – 5.
Secretary Health also highlighted the role of DCs in setting up transit booths at airport, bus stands, railway stations and other required locations in their respective districts. He asked DCs to conduct District Task Force meetings to ensure effective implementation of Polio round in the districts. They should also provide support of all departments in identifying and providing manpower at their disposal who can be trained as vaccinators, he said.
He also asked the Municipal Commissioners of both the divisions to providing space of hoardings for display of IEC at prominent locations in the twin cities and playing of jingles on all routes covered by municipal vans well in advance of the round describing the importance of polio vaccination to generate awareness amongst the masses.
He further said that health care workers who put in their efforts especially hilly terrain or hard to reach areas during the immunization programme will be felicitated.
Conclusion: India’s journey to becoming polio-free exemplifies the power of collective action, determination, and innovation in public health. By employing a multifaceted approach, leveraging political commitment, and engaging communities, India overcame formidable challenges to achieve a historic milestone. The lessons learned from India’s polio eradication campaign continue to inspire global efforts to eliminate infectious diseases and improve health outcomes for all.
