World Immunisation Week marked

PESHAWAR: Prominent health experts on Thursday stressed the need for creating awareness among the people about immunisation to get rid of vaccine-preventable diseases in the country.

The experts were speaking at a seminar which was organized by Pak International Medical College Peshawar in connection with the World Immunisation Week, coinciding with the completion of 50 years of the Expanded Programme on Immunisation.

The event, arranged by Dr Saima Abid, head of department of the Community Medicine, brought together esteemed guests from UNICEF and the provincial health department to emphasise the significance of immunisation in Pakistan.

Principal Prof Dr Amin Jan welcomed the guests and stressed the need for continued efforts to raise awareness and support vaccination initiatives. He emphasized the importance of immunisation in protecting public health, particularly in Pakistan.

Dr. Qasim Khan, representing EPI DOH, praised Pak International Medical College for its efforts, saying, “This is the first time I’ve seen a private medical college organize such an event. All private medical sectors should follow suit on important health issues.”

Dr. Inamullah Khan, Chief of Health UNICEF, emphasised the importance of collective efforts to vaccinate children and eradicate vaccine-preventable diseases. He appreciated Pak International Medical College’s initiative, saying, “We must work together to protect our children and communities.”

Besides others, Dr Muhammad Idrees (DHO Peshawar), Dr Feroz Shah (DDHO Peshawar), Dr. Arif, EPI coordinator, Dr Nayyar Jamal Abbas (UNICEF), and staff members from UNICEF and the Health Department attended the ceremony.

The event featured insightful discussions and presentations on the impact of immunization, vaccine-preventable diseases, and the role of healthcare professionals in promoting immunisation.