On World Polio Day, experts emphasize the importance of continued vigilance in the fight against polio, especially as outbreaks in neighboring Afghanistan and Pakistan serve as a stark reminder of the disease’s global threat. Despite India’s remarkable success in eradicating polio over the past 12 years, the threat of resurgence remains a critical concern.
Dr. Prince Parakh, Senior Consultant in Pediatrics and Neonatology at Newborn and Child Care Clinic in Siliguri, stresses the need to protect India’s polio-free status. “It’s not just about celebrating past achievements, but ensuring that every child remains shielded through routine immunization,” he explains. “Complacency is not an option.” India’s immunization efforts have been extensive, with over 1 billion doses of polio vaccine administered annually to 172 million children in the lead-up to its last reported case.
While polio has been eradicated in India, the virus still circulates globally. Experts warn that maintaining high immunization rates is crucial to prevent the disease’s spread. The Indian Academy of Pediatrics continues to advise strict adherence to the national vaccination schedule to ensure herd immunity. In Siliguri, where public health initiatives are key to maintaining high immunization coverage, the local market also reflects the importance of awareness campaigns. The market in Siliguri plays a vital role in spreading information, with local vendors and community groups actively participating in health drives to educate families on the significance of vaccination.
