PMC to begin MR initiative from November 27

Pune: In a nation-wide initiative by the Central government to administer Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine for children between the age group of nine months to 15 years, the Health Department of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) will also start with the initiative from November 27.

Speaking to the media during a press interaction on Thursday, Dr Ramchandra Hankare, Chief of the Health Department of the PMC said that the department has taken many steps to spread awareness about rubella and measles through the digital platform as well.

“From November 27, we are starting this initiative in three phases. We are also roping in organisations like the Indian Medical Association (IMA) and other stakeholders. This vaccine will be helpful for the coming generation as Rubella does not cause deaths. However, it may cause disabilities among babies if the mother is infected. Hence, there will be free vaccines at all centres and PMC hospitals followed by schools,” said Hankare.

He further added that along with PMC Health Department, Education Department and Women and Children Department (WCD) will be coming together to give the vaccine to children. He further informed that there are four trained members in one team.

“There are 300 such teams who will give vaccines to children. Even if the child has been given the MR earlier, they should also be included now. Vaccines will use the auto-disposal vile, which makes the vaccines safer. So far, under the same national campaign, around 20 other states have vaccinated the children,” said Dr Hankare.

He further added that in the first phase, schools will be covered, followed by anganwadis and in the third phase, those remain will be vaccinated. “These vaccines are free and parents should contact the helpline number of the vaccination centre- 02024487700 if they have any queries,” said Dr Hankare.

Dr Sanjay Lalwani, President of the Indian Association of Paediatricians (IAP),  said that the parents should not be concerned as the vaccines are reliable. 

“The vaccines are made by serum institute which exports the same vaccines to over 185 countries across the globe,” said Dr Lalwani.
 
“This MR vaccine is not available with a private practitioner. And even if the child has been vaccinated with the same vaccine before, one additional dose cannot harm the baby,” Dr Lalwani added.