The Pulse Polio Immunization drive was carried out nationwide on the 3rd of March 2024, followed by 2 sub-national immunization days on the 4th and 5th of March, 2024.The Pulse Polio Immunization (PPI) aims at covering every child in India from 0 to 5 years of age, on a single day, regardless of their prior immunization status.
KIMS immunization clinic was also a center for this national activity. Various IEC activities were carried out to ensure maximum reach, 1 week ahead. There were banners and posters installed at different points in the campus as well as in front of the immunization clinic. Social media platforms like Facebook, X and Instagram were also used to boost the reach to maximum number of beneficiaries. There was a constant rolling of awareness video in the OPD foyer. Also, potential beneficiaries were verbally informed during their OPD check-ups and routine immunization.
On the day of the PPI, more than 350 beneficiaries showed up to take drops of Polio, adhering to quality service delivery norms. The event was carried out smoothly and efficiently by the doctors from Department of Community Medicine and their vaccinating staff present in the immunization clinic, under the aegis of Prof. (Dr.) Sonali Kar, HOD and Dr. Prem Sagar Panda, Assistant Professor, In-Charge of Immunization Clinic. The beneficiaries were very happy with the very fast and efficient service backed up with patient information regarding the disease and how the drive ensures eradication of the disease.
The Department also carried out an outreach polio drive at its RHTC Kalarabank, where nearly 100 beneficiaries received the services on 3rd March 2024.
Dr. Ipsita Debata, Associate Professor, was part of the Intensive Pulse Polio Immunization monitoring activities as WHO External Monitor in different areas of Bhubaneswar in collaboration with the State team.
Department of Community Medicine expresses thanks to the hospital and IT functionaries, Brig. Prof. A. P. Mohanty, Dean and Principal and AVM Prof. Dr R C Das, Medical superintendent for their support in the IEC and necessary permis
sions as well as preparations.