SHILLONG, Aug 3: In a bid to emphasise on the role of media in helping to achieve maximum immunisation, a state media sensitisation workshop on Intensified Mission Indradhanush 5.0 (IMI 5.0) was held on Thursday by the Health department in collaboration with the MOMENTUM Routine Immunization Transformation and Equity project.
The workshop was held prior to the launch of IMI5.0. It stressed on the significance of vaccinating all eligible children and bolstering immunity in the face of existing challenges.
The workshop was attended by Mission Director of National Health Mission (NHM), Ramkumar S, and Senior Strategic Advisor, John Snow India, Dr Pradeep Haldar.
The meeting emphasised the significance of vaccinating eligible children and enhancing immunity amidst existing challenges. The event witnessed active participation from prominent media representatives, health officials, and community stakeholders, who were in unison in their efforts to support the success of IMI 5.0.
IMI 5.0 addresses factors that have limited vaccination coverage by focusing on populations with barriers, aiming to vaccinate children and eligible pregnant women who have been excluded from routine immunisation activities.
According to a statement, the state has conducted comprehensive training at different levels with emphasis on the importance of reaching unvaccinated and partially vaccinated individuals and including them in the immunisation programme.
“IMI 5.0 gives priority to children aged 0 to 5 years who have not received any vaccines, with the ultimate objective of providing life-saving vaccinations to all eligible children. Moreover, the initiative represents a significant stride towards nationwide Measles and Rubella elimination, ensuring that every child under 5 years completes the essential two-dose schedule of Measles and Rubella Containing Vaccine (MRCV),” the statement said.
In his address, NHM Director Ramkumar S said that IMI 5.0 demonstrates an unwavering dedication to reaching the unvaccinated, bridging immunisation gaps, and securing a healthier future for the children.
“We are committed to ensuring that every eligible child receives essential vaccinations for their well-being, while also strengthening immunity across our region. Through the joint efforts of The all immunisation partners, our healthcare teams, and the support of our community, we are resolute in making a lasting difference in the health and well-being of our children and building a stronger, healthier Meghalaya,” he said.
Senior Strategic Advisor, John Snow India, Dr Pradeep Haldar, on the other hand spoke about the successful COVID-19 vaccination among vulnerable and marginalized populations in Meghalaya carried out by the USAID-supported MOMENTUM Routine Immunisation Transformation & Equity project.
“The insights gained from this vaccination drive will be utilised to enhance routine immunisation for children. The project has been actively mobilising vulnerable and marginalised communities, addressing vaccine hesitancy, and promoting community involvement in vaccination in 18 states,” he said.
A key component of the initiative involves utilising technology through the U-WIN portal. This innovative platform enables healthcare workers to effectively monitor and track the immunisation status of children and pregnant women, ensuring complete coverage and timely interventions.
