Embarking on the Statewide Intensive Pulse Polio Immunization campaign today, Health Minister Dr. Sapam Ranjan passionately urges all to give two oral polio drops to every child under 5.
Dr. Sapam Ranjan initiated the 2024 National Immunization Day/Intensified Pulse Polio Immunization Program at Lamphelpat’s State Family Welfare Training Centre.
The event witnessed the inauguration of a cutting-edge Model Immunization Centre by Dr. Sapam Ranjan, marking a significant milestone.
Scheduled to continue until March 5, the annual polio immunization drive is orchestrated by the State Directorate of Family Welfare, State Health Society, and National Health Mission.
During the launch, Dr. Sapam Ranjan emphasized the imperative of vaccinating every child under 5 in Manipur to shield them from polio.
Despite India eradicating polio, Dr. Sapam Ranjan stressed the necessity of the yearly Intensified Pulse Polio Immunization Program to curb potential cross-border threats from neighboring countries.
While India earned a polio-free status from the World Health Organization on March 27, 2014, Dr. Sapam Ranjan cautioned about lingering risks in countries like Pakistan and Afghanistan.
The immunization initiative, extending until March 5, aims to ensure two drops of oral polio vaccine reach every child under 5, a plea echoed by Dr. Sapam Ranjan.
Dr. Somorjit Ningombam, State Mission Director of the National Health Mission, disclosed that immunization efforts encompass booth setups and door-to-door drives on March 4 and 5.
Explaining polio, the Mayo Clinic describes it as an ailment triggered by the poliovirus, targeting nerve cells in the spinal cord and brain stem, potentially leading to paralysis.
In severe cases, polio can incapacitate specific limbs, interfere with breathing, and sadly, result in death—also known as poliomyelitis.
Highlighting the virus’s transmission, it easily spreads through infected individuals, even those asymptomatic, via feces, droplets, or contaminated water.
Vaccination emerges as the most effective strategy against polio, underscoring the importance of preventive healthcare.
The National Immunization Day/Intensified Pulse Polio Immunization Program’s launch witnessed the presence of key figures, including Family Welfare Services Director Dr. L Tomcha and Health Services Director Dr. O Sanahanbi Devi.
