Measles And Rubella Immunization Drive Kicks Off, Schools Receive Positive Response

28 November, 2018

THANE: The state-wide measles and rubella (MR) immunization drive which kick-started on Tuesday in 12 private schools received positive response from parents. The Thane municipal corporation (TMC) has targeted 23,659 children between the age group of four and 15 years in the first day of the drive. As many as 540 vaccinators, anganvadi sevikas and volunteers were part of the drive.

The drive began in the morning and went on till 5pm. The younger children were accompanied by their parents and guardians. After receiving the shots, the kids were kept under observation for an hour to check if they got any side effects.

When the drive was announced, many parents opposed it claiming that they will not give the vaccination to their children. After this, schools carried out counselling sessions for the parents and made them understand its importance.

“Initially we were sceptical about the vaccination as we did not have a clear picture of how the drive will be condcuted and how the injection would be given. But all our doubts were cleared after the school authorities and the health department held a meeting. Also, I had already given my daughter the vaccination, but as the drive is on I thought it would be more beneficial. So, we gave it again,” said Leena Rane, a parent.

Meanwhile, the teachers had extra work on their hands as they had to not only monitor the kids, but also ensure that everyone was administered the vaccination during the drive.

“The ones who missed out on the immunization will be given the vaccination in round two which will be held within the next six weeks. Also, the children from 9 months till three years who do not go to school will be given the shots when the drive will be conducted in different localities,” said Dr. Ram Kendre, medical health officer, TMC.

Source : timesofindia.indiatimes.com