Puducherry Launches Pentavalent Vaccine In The State Immunization Programme

Puducherry launches pentavalent vaccine in the state immunization programme

UNICEF and GHS conduct media engagement with the media in partnership with Government of Puducherry and NRHM

Puducherry, January 11, 2013: The Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of Puducherry will be soon launching the pentavalent vaccine in all four districts of the state. After its successful launch in Tamil Nadu and Kerala in 2011, pentavalent vaccine will be rolled out in the state, which provides protection against five life threatening diseases Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, Hepatitis B and Hib (Haemophilus influenza type b). The vaccine is likely to cover 22,000 children (birth to one year).

On the occasion, the Government, UNICEF and Global Health Strategies (GHS) conducted a pre-launch engagement programme with the state and national media. The representatives from the media houses were provided key information on the safety and efficacy of the vaccine through a participatory and consultative process.  Shri G Ragesh Chandra IAS, Secretary, Health & Family Welfare, Government of Puducherry and Dr K V Raman, Director Health and Family Welfare, Government of Puducherry in the presence of­ Dr. Chandrakant Lahariya of WHO and paediatricians from Puducherry engaged with media persons.

“Pneumonia is the leading cause for under-five child mortality in India. This is an important step by the Government to ensure that preventable deaths caused by pneumonia and meningitis are addressed,” said Chandrakant Lahariya, RI & New Vaccine Focal Person, WHO.

Dr. K V Raman added, “The decision to use the pentavalent vaccine will result in tremendous logistical conveniences. Since five vaccines are stored in a single vial, a lot of space will be freed up for storage and transportation. Also, a single auto-disable syringe will be used instead of three per child, thereby substantially reducing the plastic and sharp waste as well. We are happy to partner with UNICEF and GHS in this engagement programme with media which can play an important role in dispelling myths and misconceptions associated.”

Mr. Kaushik Bose, Senior Manager, Global Health Strategies said “These vaccines are available in the private market for a long time and those who can afford them can protect their children. However the vaccine should reach the population that needs them the most. By introducing pentavalent vaccines in the state immunization programme, the Government of Puducherry will save lives of many more children, who would not have access to this vaccine otherwise. We congratulate the Government for the progressive steps taken for the children in Puducherry.”