Vaccination programme steady despite rumours

Chennai: Despite rumours about health hazards of the Measles Rubella vaccine, the Tamil Nadu Health Department hasn't given up in its efforts to encourage parents to bring their children for the vaccination programme.

With 54.24 lakh children having been administered the vaccination until Saturday, sources in the Department of Public Health say that the pace has been steadily increasing.

Over the course of the week, media reports on the death of 10 children following vaccination were also doing the rounds, following which the Health Department filed a complaint against the offenders.

"The Madurai Deputy Director confirmed that no such incident took place. People should not ruin Child Welfare Programmes with off based information," said Director, Public Health Department, Dr Kolandaisamy.

"We will definitely reach our goal of vaccinating 1.8 crore children by February 28. Many hospitals and associations are contributing their efforts for the same. In Tiruchy, the Indian Association of Paediatricians, Tiruchy Medical College, and paediatricians of Government Medical Colleges together conducted an awareness meeting on the same on Sunday," he said.

Stating that all district Collectors are conducting parents-teachers meetings and meetings with school principals, a health official said that many parents who had missed getting their children vaccinated in the first two weeks are now showing interest in the same.

"The 104 helpline gets around 150 calls regarding the same on a regular basis. Earlier, concerned parents would call to clarify their doubts about the vaccine. However, now, they call to find out whom to contact in order ensure that their children are also vaccinated," he added.   

Appreciating the efforts of the Health Department in carrying out the vaccination programme, Paediatrician Dr. Devdoss said, "It is essential that the parents avail the benefits of the campaign. Educating them about the importance of vaccination may be difficult following the rumours. However, focus should be laid on awareness."