Photo Courtesy: nagalandpost
Kohima: Dimapur officials gathered at the deputy commissioner’s office on June 12 to review district health initiatives and refine immunization strategies. Chaired by EAC Imlijungla, the meeting focused on the necessity of interdepartmental coordination to ensure the success of public health programs.
Dr. Sheila Longkumer, senior medical officer at the WHO, confirmed that India maintains its polio-free status but urged continued vigilance due to ongoing cases in neighboring countries. Dimapur achieved high coverage during the March 2024 campaign, vaccinating 76,133 children, and the district is now preparing for the next phase of the Intensified Pulse Polio Immunization program scheduled for June 28.
Health authorities also addressed a measles outbreak in Purana Bazaar and nearby areas, which has affected over 40 children, most of whom had not been vaccinated. In response, officials are launching an intensive house-to-house vaccination drive and a Measles-Rubella campaign to curb the spread. Dr. Rongsennungla noted that the district manages 12 functional cold chain points to ensure vaccines remain effective during distribution.
New efforts are also underway to combat cervical cancer. Rajesh Monsang of the UNDP highlighted the inclusion of HPV vaccination in India’s routine immunization schedule. He noted the launch of a three-month campaign supported by the District Education Officer, stating, "He emphasized early vaccination for adolescent girls and informed of a three-month campaign launched with support from the District Education Officer."
Regarding vector-borne diseases, consultant Heanglih T Konyak announced a target of zero indigenous malaria cases for Dimapur by 2027. The district plans to achieve this through rigorous surveillance and community preventive measures. The meeting included the chief medical officer and representatives from the Jain and Muslim communities, with officials calling for sustained support to reach these public health goals.
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