Muhammad Abdullah Rashid.
FAISALABAD(Daily Parliament Times): The measles and rubella catch-up campaign will be started in the district from November 15 to 27, during which 3.3 million children aged 9 months to 15 years will be vaccinated against measles and rubella, while children up to five years will be vaccinated against polio also during the campaign, all necessary arrangements for the campaign have been finalized. However, parents are strongly urged to protect their children against deadly diseases by vaccinating them. This was stated by Director Health Services Dr. Kamran Rasheed as the special guest in the District advocacy Seminar with the collaboration of UNICEF for Private Practitioners (GPs) held at District Health Development Center. CEO DHA Dr. Kashif Mehmood, Regional Coordinator WHO Dr. Mudassar, Divisional Coordinator UNICEF Dr. Serena, President Pakistan Medical Association Dr. Solat Nawaz, Dr. Altaf-ur-Rehman from AFPP, Dr. Tahir from PPA and officer from Health Department and a large number of officers and private practitioners were also present. The Director Health Services appreciated the efforts of the organizers on the successful conduct of the seminar and urged the doctors to play a vital role for the success of the campaign,because they have a respectable place in the society and they have a deep connection with the patients who come for treatment. The CEO Health said that the rubella vaccine is being introduced for the first time and after this campaign, It will be part of the vaccine and then vaccinations against 12 diseases will be given. He said that just as measles and polio are dangerous, so is the rubella virus too. He said that about 2500 vaccinators will take part in the campaign which will set up kits stations inside the houses and inject children in the area. In addition, vaccination facility will also be provided at fixed centers, hospitals and dispensaries. The representative of World Health Organization stressed on the need to make concerted efforts to make the campaign a success and thanked the district administration for its full support in this regard. Dr. Sarina explained the aims and objectives of the measles and rubella campaign and thanks to the guests.