A special immunisation programme Indradhanush (rainbow) has been launched in Odisha's tribal-dominated Koraput district under which nearly 4,000 children in the age group of 0 to 2 will be immunised.
Health officials said the programme will vaccinate children, who are either not vaccinated at all or partially vaccinated against seven diseases, symbolising Indradhanush which consists of seven colours.
"During a survey conducted by our field staff, 4,000 children were identified and they will be covered under the programme," said Chief District Medical Officer (CDMO) of Koraput, Laxmidhar Kabi.
Maybe owing to lack of awareness among parents, there has been a drop in second dose of vaccines in the district and it's a challenge in getting the children back for the second and third dose of immunisation, health officials said. Skipping
vaccination is reflected in rising number of children becoming vulnerable to childhood diseases, they added.
According to CDMO, seven diseases like pertussis (whooping cough), Hepatitis B, diphtheria, tetanus, polio, tuberculosis and measles could be prevented through vaccination.
"These diseases are dangerous and have become the main cause of deaths of a large number of children. Our staff will provide vaccination to children and pregnant women for seven days from 7 to 14 of each month from April to July by visiting door to door," the CDMO said.
