The upcoming fifth phase of the Intensified Mission Indradhanush (IMI) project is set to be launched across all districts of the state on August 7th. The primary objective of this phase is to provide vaccinations to pregnant mothers and children in the age group of 0-5 years who might have missed their immunizations due to the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In preparation for the successful implementation of the program, a specialized workshop was organized at the conference hall of the West Tripura District Magistrate. The workshop was led by Chief Medical Officer Dr. Ranjan Biswas, District Immunization Officer Ishita Guha, and District Magistrate of West Tripura, Debapriya Bardhan.
One of the unique aspects of IMI is its role in reinforcing ongoing efforts to eliminate measles and rubella from the state by December 2023. This is achieved through comprehensive vaccination campaigns, with a particular focus on reaching children in every village. Surveillance activities have also been heightened, including the collection of samples from suspected patients.
The Tribal Immunization Strategy has received additional support from the 15th Finance Commission, aimed at achieving 100 percent immunization coverage in tribal areas.
During the workshop, District Immunization Officer Ishita Guha emphasized the campaign’s importance and objectives. She highlighted that ASHA workers are conducting door-to-door surveys to identify individuals who have not been fully vaccinated due to various reasons, including the impact of COVID-19. The vaccination process will occur in three rounds: August 7-12, September 11-16, and October 9-14.
Discussing the potential side effects of immunization, Guha clarified that adverse effects are classified as mild, severe, or serious. Mild symptoms may include fever and body aches, while severe symptoms are rare. Health workers are trained to handle any serious or severe cases that may arise.
District Magistrate Debapriya Bardhan informed the media that a total of 212 IMI sessions will be held in remote and tea garden areas, targeting individuals who may have missed vaccinations. The survey indicated that 365 expectant mothers, 1335 children aged 0-2, and 502 children aged 2-5 have not yet been vaccinated.
To ensure full coverage, all health institutions have identified high-risk and hard-to-reach areas within different blocks. Training programs for health workers and ASHA workers have been successfully conducted, and a robust awareness campaign is underway.
Officials emphasized that the strategy may evolve in each round to ensure comprehensive coverage. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Ranjan Biswas urged parents to prioritize their children’s vaccinations, emphasizing that vaccination is the most effective means of preventing dangerous infectious diseases.
