District Minister Satish Jarkiholi reaffirmed India's status as a polio-free nation while launching a crucial immunization drive in Belagavi. He stressed that the simple act of administering two drops of the polio vaccine is a powerful shield for children, preventing severe health issues like organ failure and ensuring their holistic development.
Launching the Lifesaving Campaign in Gokak
The district-level National Pulse Polio Vaccination campaign was officially inaugurated on Sunday at the Mother and Child Hospital in Gokak city. Minister Satish Jarkiholi personally administered the oral vaccine to children, marking the start of the public health initiative. He reminded the public that while India detected its last polio case in 2011, and Belagavi district's last confirmed case was back in 1998, vigilance is key as the infection persists in other countries.
Government's Push for 100% Immunization Coverage
Minister Jarkiholi clarified that the government is running this campaign purely in the interest of child welfare. He issued a clear directive to parents, stating that children must be vaccinated against polio without fail. He also instructed health officers to work actively with the community to achieve the ambitious target of 100% vaccination coverage across the district.
In a significant announcement concerning local healthcare infrastructure, the minister revealed plans to upgrade the Gokak Public Hospital. He stated that a proposal to discuss and designate the facility as a district-level hospital will be tabled in the next state cabinet meeting, highlighting its role as a lifesaver for economically disadvantaged patients.
Medical Experts Detail Vaccination Protocol
District Health and Family Welfare Officer, Dr. Ishwar Gadad, provided technical details on the immunization schedule. He informed that the polio vaccine is administered both orally and via injection when infants are 6 weeks and 14 weeks old. The launch event saw participation from key health officials including District Reproductive Mother and Child Health Officer Dr. SS Sayannavar, and Health Education Officers BB Ishappagol and RG Bassapur.
The concerted efforts by the health department, combined with public cooperation, aim to maintain India's hard-earned polio-free certification and protect every child from the debilitating disease.
