Health Officials in Balochistan Launch Immunization Awareness Week

Immunization Awareness Week was recently launched in Balochistan, aligning with global efforts to promote vaccination. The event, scheduled from April 24 to 30, aims to vaccinate over 0.4 million children across the province. However, the region faces a challenge with more than 1,000 vacant vaccinator posts, of which 300 are set to be filled soon.

Director General of Health Balochistan, Dr. Farooq Hoth, and EPI Program Provincial Coordinator, Dr. Kamalan Gichki, emphasized the significance of this initiative during a press conference at Quetta Press Club. They highlighted the collaboration between the Department of Health, Government of Balochistan, UNICEF, and WHO in celebrating the 50th anniversary of the immunization program.

The program, supported by the Pakistan Pediatric Association, has evolved to cover 12 diseases under EPI, including tuberculosis, polio, measles, and rubella. Free vaccinations are provided through various channels such as hospitals, fixed sites, outreach vaccination, and mobile teams to reach remote populations in challenging terrains like mountain ranges, deserts, and coastal areas.

Despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, efforts have been intensified to ensure children up to five years old receive their vaccinations. The expansion of the target population from birth to two years to include older children reflects the commitment to combat vaccine-preventable diseases effectively.

In conclusion, the Immunization Awareness Week in Balochistan underscores the critical role of vaccination in safeguarding public health. The concerted efforts of health authorities and partners in reaching underserved populations demonstrate a strong commitment to promoting immunization and preventing the spread of infectious diseases.