Kozhikode: The members and relatives of the academic wing of Indian Medical Association will take diphtheria vaccination on Sunday in the wake of the spread of the disease. The vaccination would be done at the venue of the state meet of the academic wing of IMA at Perinthalmanna. “As a message to the public that diphtheria could be curbed through vaccination, we are taking the dosage. Apart from doctors and relatives, those who reach on the spot will be vaccinated,” said Dr Samuel Koshy, IMA state secretary.
As many as 1500 people would take vaccine, according to the organizers. Diphtheria has already claimed two lives in Malappuram and more than 25 positive cases were detected in Malappuram, Kozhikode and Kannur districts. “We have already joined hands with the government in the awareness campaign to educate the public. IMA had urged the government to deal sternly with the anti-vaccination lobby,” he added.
The Kerala Government Medical Officers’ Association (KGMOA) has given a memorandum to the health minister to initiate vaccination to all health workers who were exposed to diphtheria. “If the government delays vaccination, we will start our own for our members,” said KGMOA state president Dr V. Madhu. the organization has already started vaccinating its members in Ernakulam district.
Those who had not taken anti-diphtheria vaccination in childhood are taking three dosages and others one.
