'Speakers Emphasize the Significance of Vaccination during 'World Immunization Week' 2023
PESHAWAR: During a seminar held in celebration of World Immunization Week-2023, speakers highlighted the crucial role of vaccination and the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders in promoting routine immunization in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The seminar, organized by the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) Department of Health Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, in partnership with UNICEF and the Pakistan Pediatric Association (PPA-KP), aimed to raise awareness about the importance of vaccination among the population of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Dr. Shaukat Ali, the Chief Guest and Director General of Health Service Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, expressed gratitude to all the stakeholders, including partners, organizations, and the media, for their contributions in promoting routine immunization in the region. Dr. Ali stressed the significance of vaccination in preventing diseases and saving lives, with a particular focus on the health department's efforts to eradicate the polio virus from all areas of the province, including the merged districts. He underscored the importance of routine immunization for children and urged parents to cooperate with the EPI teams by ensuring that their children receive vaccines for 12 diseases.
Dr. Muhammad Arif Khan, the Director of EPI, discussed the importance of immunization in preventing various diseases. He urged parents to adhere to recommended vaccination schedules and ensure timely immunization for their children. Dr. Khan also commended the EPI department's initiatives in promoting vaccination and increasing public awareness. He acknowledged the media's positive role in coverage and addressing pertinent issues, calling upon them to continue raising awareness about the significance of vaccinations.
Renowned pediatrician Dr. Muhammad Ashfaq Ahmad shed light on the complications that children face when they are not vaccinated. He emphasized the pivotal role of vaccination in preventing diseases and reducing the risk of complications. Dr. Ahmad stressed the importance of timely vaccination and following the recommended schedules, urging parents to prioritize their children's health.
Dr. Muhammad Hussain, President of the Pakistan Pediatric Association KP Chapter, highlighted the essential contribution of pediatricians in supporting the health department's vaccination promotion endeavors. He discussed the challenges faced by pediatricians and emphasized the need for increased support from the health department.
Dr. Kamran Qureshi from UNICEF shared concerning statistics revealing that 60% of children in tribal areas and 39% in other districts do not complete the full course of vaccination. He appealed to parents to prioritize their children's health by ensuring their vaccination against these diseases, as it secures their future and enables them to lead healthy and happy lives. Dr. Qureshi reiterated the importance of community engagement in promoting vaccination and raising public awareness about the benefits of routine immunization.
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