SHILLONG, Nov 14: With a multi-faceted approach to tackle pneumonia, the Directorate of Health Services, Meghalaya in collaboration with the Office of the District Medical & Health Officer, East Khasi Hills under the aegis of National Health Mission (NHM) organised a programme for the launch of Social Awareness & Action to Neutralize Pneumonia Successfully (SAANS) campaign at Umthlong Maweitnai village under Pomlum PHC.
The campaign which will be carried out till February next year aims to create awareness and mobilise the local community towards ‘Pneumonia Protection, Prevention & Treatment’.
It will ensure that all eligible children receive three doses of Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) ie two primary doses at six weeks and 14 weeks and a booster dose at nine months, as per the national immunisation schedule under the Universal Immunizsation Programme (UIP).
It also stresses on early identification and management of the disease in children less than five years of age.
Besides, SAANS will also help create awareness on air pollution and its effects on children.
The programme held on Monday was attended by Jt DHS (MCH&FW), Meghalaya, Dr P Manners, District MCH Officer, EKH, Dr EL Kharmutee and Paeditrician, Ganesh Hospital, Shillong, Dr Iaineh Lyngdoh among others.
The launching of the awareness campaign was also attended by the parents and members of the community.
