A significant public health initiative unfolded across Dakshina Kannada district on Sunday, as the National Pulse Polio Programme aimed to protect the region's youngest citizens. The campaign targeted the administration of polio drops to 1,41,594 children under the age of five, marking a crucial step in the fight against the debilitating disease.
High Coverage Achieved in District-Wide Effort
The immunization drive was conducted at a vast network of 956 centres spread throughout the district. The formal inauguration ceremony took place at Mangaluru's Lady Goschen Hospital, setting the stage for the day's activities. By the end of the day, the collective effort yielded impressive results, with the district achieving 96.8% of its immunisation target. Health workers successfully administered the vital polio drops to approximately 1.3 lakh children, bringing the community closer to complete protection.
Officials and Medical Experts Rally for Complete Coverage
Speaking at the inaugural event, MLC Manjunath Bhandary made a fervent appeal to the public. He urged every parent and guardian to ensure that every child between the ages of one and five in the district receives the pulse polio vaccine. He emphasized that this simple act of administering two drops can offer permanent protection from disability caused by polio. "To prevent any form of disability from affecting children in the future, the campaign must be successful with the support of the government and the community," he stated.
The event saw the presence of key district officials and medical authorities, underscoring the campaign's importance. Those present included DC Darshan HV, ZP CEO Narwade Vinayak Karbari, DHO Dr HR Thimmaiah, Wenlock District Hospital superintendent Dr DS Shivaprakash, and Lady Goschen superintendent Dr Durgaprasad MR.
Campaign Continues to Ensure No Child is Missed
The pulse polio campaign is not a one-day event. To maximize reach and ensure no child is left out, the drive will continue actively in the district until December 24. The schedule is tailored to different areas:
- Rural areas: The campaign will last for three days.
- Urban areas: The campaign will extend for four days.
This extended timeline provides multiple opportunities for families to visit booths and get their children vaccinated, moving steadily towards the goal of a polio-free generation.
