WORLD POLIO DAY OBERVED

WORLD POLIO DAY OBERVED

27-OCT-ENG 4

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

BUXAR------------------------On the occasion of World Polio Day, an awareness program was organized at the Sabit Khidmat Foundation and hospital premises (located at the site of the former sugar mill) under the joint auspices of the Sabit Khidmat Foundation and 'Human Rights Social Justice, Buxar.' The day was marked by cutting a cake, and banners were used to educate the public about the importance of the oral polio vaccine (the "two drops").

The program was attended by the Director of the Sabit Khidmat Foundation and the hospital Dr. Dilshad Alam, former president of the Rotary Club of Buxar, stated that regular vaccination and awareness are crucial for protecting children from a serious disease like polio. Parents must ensure that every eligible child receives their polio vaccine doses according to the prescribed schedule.

He noted that India has achieved remarkable success in the field of polio eradication. The last case of polio in the country was reported in 2011. Subsequently, in 2014, the World Health Organization certified the South-East Asia region—which includes India—as polio-free. Healthcare workers, government initiatives, social organizations, and Rotary International have all played a vital role in this achievement.

Dr. Alam pointed out that the continued circulation of the poliovirus in countries like Pakistan and Afghanistan remains a cause for concern. Given this, it is essential to remain vigilant and ensure that vaccination reaches every child. Referring to the development of polio vaccines, he mentioned that the Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV), developed by Dr. Jonas Salk, was approved for use in 1955. Meanwhile, the Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV), developed by Dr. Albert Sabin, also made a significant contribution to the polio eradication campaign.

He urged citizens, parents, social organizations, and healthcare workers to actively participate in the polio eradication drive. He emphasized that through awareness and regular vaccination, children can be kept safe from this disease.

Several social workers were present at the event, including MD Sahab Raj, Rukhsana, Ram Belal, Ritesh, Salim, Ritu, Brajesh, Kalam, Deepak, Manish Kumar, Rahul Kumar, Sunil Kumar, Naseem, Mukhtar, Arun Singh, Arun Kumar, Halim, Urmila, and Anju. Reaffirming their commitment to polio eradication, they pledged to raise public awareness and ensure that every eligible child receives the polio vaccine.

The event conveyed the message that awareness, regular vaccination, and collective effort are essential for protection against polio.