DIMAPUR, OCTOBER 10 (MExN): Nagaland will observe the Sub National Immunization Day (SNID) on October 12 as part of the nationwide Polio Day initiative. The campaign will be conducted across five districts—Kiphire, Mon, Noklak, Phek, and Tuensang—with the Department of Health and Family Welfare preparing to administer oral polio vaccine drops to all eligible children aged 0–5 years, regardless of their previous immunization status.
Each child will receive two drops of the oral polio vaccine to ensure continued protection against the poliovirus. The Department reminded that although India remains polio-free, the virus continues to exist in a few countries and can re-enter if vigilance lapses. “To ensure the child’s complete protection, polio vaccine is given every time so that India maintains its victory over polio,” the release stated.
The Department informed that Booth Day will be held on October 12 from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, during which parents and caregivers can bring their children to designated booths for vaccination. After administration, the child’s finger will be marked with ink to record coverage. The Department clarified that the ink used for finger marking is safe and non-toxic.
Parents and caregivers have been urged to avail the free service and visit the nearest polio booth. They may also contact local health workers, ASHAs, and Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) for further information.
“The initiatives can be sustained only through a multi-stakeholder approach,” it stated, calling for continued support from allied departments, faith-based organizations, civil society organizations, village councils, women leaders, and members of professional and service groups including IMA, IAP, IDA, Rotary, and Lions Club.
The Department appealed to all stakeholders to ensure that every child under five years of age in their families and communities receives the two drops of oral polio vaccine.
