Terming universal immunisation programme in India as one of the largest health programme in the world, minister for health and family welfare, P. Longon said that the county has been providing vaccines against life-threatening diseases free of cost, with special focus on vaccinating children.
Longon said this while inaugurating the state level workshop on Introduction of Inactivated Poliovirus Vaccine (IPV) & Pentavalent Vaccine into Routine Immunisation at Hotel Japfü, Kohima on Wednesday.
The workshop was organized by World Health Organisation (WHO) in collaboration with the department of health and family welfare, Nagaland.
He said with the introduction of IPV and Pentavalent vaccine, children would be provided added protection against poliovirus and haemophilus influenza type B.
The minister further expressed hope that gaps and challenges with regard to health care would be dealt with the introduction of the IPV.
Commissioner and secretary H&FW, M. Patton IAS welcomed the district officials and officials from allied departments and WHO. Pointing out that IPV and Pentavalent vaccines were very sensitive and expensive, he urged the health workers value its benefit and sincere in their assignment, towards the success of the programme.
Earlier, in his keynote address, mission director National Health Mission, Dr. Sukhato Sema said when India reached a polio free status in March 27, last year, global experts have accepted that global eradication of polio was feasible. He also emphasised on the importance of inter-sectoral coordination especially at the District level.
Dr. Mandeep Rathee, WCO, India expressed happiness towards the political and intersectoral commitment shown by the State towards the programme. Principal director DoH&FW, Dr.Nandira Chagkija chaired the function.