What is pulse polio programme?

Pulse polio immunisation (PPI), is an immunisation campaign launched by the Government of India in 1995 to eradicate poliomyelitis (polio) from the country by vaccinating all children under the age of five with polio vaccine.

Key Objectives of the Pulse Polio Programme:

Eradication of Polio: The primary goal of the Pulse Polio Programme is to achieve the complete eradication of polio from India by ensuring that every child is vaccinated and protected against the disease.

Mass Immunisation Campaigns: The programme involves conducting mass immunisation drives across the country during specific designated days. These campaigns aim to reach every household and immunise all children within the target age group, regardless of their socioeconomic status.

Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV): During the pulse polio campaigns, children are administered oral polio vaccine (OPV) drops, which are safe and effective in preventing polio. OPV works by stimulating the body's immune system to produce antibodies against the poliovirus.

Door-to-Door Vaccinations: Health workers visit every household to administer polio vaccine drops to children. They also educate families about the importance of immunisation and promote healthy hygiene practices.

Social Mobilisation: The Pulse Polio Programme relies heavily on social mobilisation to raise awareness about the campaign and encourage community participation. This involves engaging with community leaders, religious leaders, NGOs, and other stakeholders to ensure that every child is immunised.

Surveillance and Monitoring: The programme also involves surveillance and monitoring mechanisms to track the progress of immunisation efforts and identify areas where additional interventions may be needed. This helps in identifying any missed children and ensuring that all children receive the necessary doses of polio vaccine.

The Pulse Polio Programme has been successful in significantly reducing the incidence of polio cases in India. With continued efforts and commitment, the goal of polio eradication can be achieved, ensuring a polio-free future for the country's children.