The Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI) has resumed in Chattogram with renewed vigor, bringing immense relief to parents and guardians. This program, vital for the health of newborns, is now providing essential vaccines such as the Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) and Pentavalent vaccine, crucial for developing immunity against life-threatening diseases.

The resumption of the EPI has been welcomed with open arms by the residents of Chattogram, particularly new parents who have been eagerly waiting for their children to receive these life-saving vaccines. Akmal Hossain, a resident of Halishahar, expressed his relief after his daughter finally received the prescribed doses of PCV and Pentavalent vaccines. “It’s a huge relief to see my daughter getting the necessary protection against serious diseases,” he shared.

The Pentavalent vaccine is essential in safeguarding children against five critical diseases: Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, Hepatitis-B, and Haemophilus Influenzae type-B. Similarly, the PCV is pivotal in protecting against pneumonia, a significant cause of infant mortality. These vaccines play a crucial role in ensuring the health and well-being of children in Bangladesh. 

Dr. Basana Muhuri, former professor of the child health department at Chittagong Medical College, highlighted the importance of these vaccines. “In Bangladesh, we keep an interval of at least 28 days between each dose of these vaccines, ensuring effective immunity development in children,” she explained.

Vaccination centres in Chattogram, managed by the Chattogram City Corporation (CCC), have been bustling with activity. Parents like Shampa Chakraborty, from the Sadarghat area, have finally been able to vaccinate their children, alleviating months of concern. “It’s reassuring to see my child getting the necessary vaccines,” said Shampa.

Dr. Imam Hossain Rana, chief health officer of CCC, expressed confidence in the program’s success. “With the current vaccine supply, we are capable of conducting a comprehensive week-long vaccination drive,” he stated. The community’s proactive response and the health department’s commitment are evident as vaccination centres are once again full of hopeful parents.

Dr. Elias Chowdhury, the civil surgeon of Chattogram, echoed these sentiments, emphasising the importance of the EPI program. “The vaccination program is now in full swing, ensuring that our children receive the best possible protection against preventable diseases,” he affirmed.

The commitment of the healthcare authorities and the enthusiastic participation of the community are a testament to the strength of the EPI program in Chattogram. With robust immunisation efforts, the future health of the city’s children looks brighter than ever. The renewed momentum in the EPI program is a significant step forward in ensuring that every child in Chattogram, and indeed across Bangladesh, is protected against life-threatening diseases. 

Reference:
Dey AB. EPI vaccination resumes in Ctg after 5 months [Internet]. The Daily Star. 2024 [cited 2024 Jul 29]. Available from: https://www.thedailystar.net/health/healthcare/news/epi-vaccination-resumes-ctg-after-5-months-3602256