NHM and WHO teams inspect Sonamura health centres to review measles-rubella vaccination drive, ensuring proper immunisation coverage among infants amid rising concerns over cross-border measles cases near the India-Bangladesh border region.
A recent inspection across health facilities in Sepahijala district has brought renewed focus on strengthening immunisation coverage among infants, particularly in sensitive border regions. Officials from national and international health bodies carried out a coordinated review of the measles-rubella (MR) vaccination programme in Sonamura subdivision, assessing both implementation and outreach effectiveness.
A team from the National Health Mission (NHM), led by Tripura Member Secretary Dr Souvik Debbarma, visited multiple primary and community health centres to examine whether infants aged nine to ten months are receiving the MR vaccine according to prescribed guidelines. The visit aimed to evaluate ground-level execution of the immunisation drive and identify any gaps in coverage. Dr Debbarma was accompanied by Sepahijala Chief Medical Officer Dr Debasish Das, who provided district-level insights into healthcare delivery.
During the inspection, the team focused on facilities located in border areas, where accessibility and awareness challenges often affect vaccination rates. Health officials interacted with medical officers, nurses, and frontline health workers to review vaccination records, cold chain management, and adherence to immunisation protocols. Emphasis was placed on identifying children who have missed their scheduled MR doses and ensuring they are promptly brought under the vaccination net.
Within 24 hours of the NHM team’s visit, a representative from the World Health Organisation (WHO), Dr Nihar Ranjan Roy, conducted a parallel assessment in the same subdivision. His visit aimed to independently verify whether vaccination practices align with global standards and national immunisation schedules. The evaluation included checking documentation, observing vaccination sessions, and assessing community engagement efforts.
The back-to-back visits highlight the urgency attached to the MR vaccination programme, especially given Sonamura’s proximity to the India-Bangladesh border. Health authorities have expressed concern over reported measles cases and child fatalities in neighbouring regions across the border, raising the risk of cross-border transmission.
| Also Read: Monkey Menace Worsens in Kathalia, Villagers Face Heavy Losses |
Officials reiterated the importance of maintaining high immunisation coverage to prevent outbreaks of measles and rubella, both of which can have serious health consequences for children. Strengthening surveillance, improving awareness among parents, and ensuring timely vaccination remain key priorities for the health department.
The joint review by NHM and WHO is expected to further streamline the immunisation process and reinforce preventive healthcare measures in vulnerable regions. Authorities have indicated that follow-up visits and continuous monitoring will be carried out to sustain progress and address any emerging challenges.
