Nagar Kurnool: A one-day workshop on immunization was held by the District Health Department in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO). The event took place at the District Collectorate Conference Hall and was attended by medical officers and supervisory staff from across the district.
Dr. KV Swarajya Lakshmi, the District Medical and Health Officer, highlighted the importance of reaching 100% immunization. She explained that the goal is to protect children from 12 life-threatening diseases, from birth up to 16 years of age. Dr. Lakshmi urged healthcare workers to ensure that pregnant women receive tetanus vaccines as soon as they register for care. She also stressed the need to follow vaccination schedules in every village, hamlet, and urban area. Additionally, she encouraged ANMs, ASHA workers, and other health staff to promote awareness programs to support these immunization efforts.
Dr. K. Ravikumar Naik, the District Immunization Officer, shared key information about how to properly store vaccines and maintain cold chain systems. He also discussed the national immunization schedule and how to handle any side effects from the vaccines. His presentation included audiovisual aids to make the information clearer.
WHO representative Dr. Azhar emphasized the importance of keeping a close watch for signs of diseases such as polio, measles, rubella, whooping cough, diphtheria, and tetanus. He instructed that any suspicious symptoms in children under 15 should be reported immediately to the district immunization officer.
Dr. Azhar also announced a “SAANS Campaign” that will run from November 12 to February 28, 2025. The campaign aims to raise awareness about pneumonia prevention, its symptoms, and available treatments. The goal is to eliminate pneumonia in children, ensuring no child suffers from this illness. Female health workers, including ASHA workers, will visit homes to check on children under five. If needed, they will refer children to the nearest health center for treatment.
To prevent pneumonia, Dr. Azhar explained that children should receive three doses of the PCV (Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine) at 6 weeks, 14 weeks, and after completing 9 months of age.
The workshop was attended by several key officials, including Deputy District Medical and Health Officer Dr. M. Venkata Das, Dr. Tara Singh, Dr. Krishnamohan, and all primary medical officers and supervisory staff in the district.
