BY JEROME IKUAVI
The National Polio Campaign marks an historic moment for PNG as the country rolls out the biggest polio campaign to be implemented thus far.
WHO Consultant Dr Ganga Ram Choudhary said that the World Health Organisation is in the campaign to vaccinate 3.2 million children throughout country under 15 years against polio.
During the launch of the campaign in West New Britain yesterday, Dr Choudhary said that currently PNG has 14 reported polio cases which is affecting six province including Port Moresby.
“The situation is unfortunate and this outbreak signals WHO that PNG is in the midst of polio outbreak,” he said.
He said after 18 years since PNG was declared polio free in 2000 by WHO, it was surprising to have polio cases again.
“In the entire country about 3.2 million children will be vaccinated in this round of campaign. WHO is giving great support to hospitals and rural clinics throughout the country,” he said.
Dr Choudhary reiterated that the outbreak signals WHO that our children are not safe to the infectious deadly disease that can cause lifelong paralysis and death which spreads from person to person.
“It can be prevented only by vaccination and we are making an appeal to parents and care givers to bring children to be vaccinated and be protected for life. Children need to receive multiple doses to boost immunity for life,” said Dr Choudhary.
He also urged the public to look after the polio health workers so that they can carry out their job to vaccinate the children.
“I thank the international partners for the support they have given including local partners in the provinces.
“We will work together to eradicate and protect our children from polio in making sure every child is vaccinated and no one is left behind,” he said.