On World Polio Day, health experts emphasize the ongoing threat of poliomyelitis, especially following a recent incident in Meghalaya. Polio, an infectious viral disease that primarily affects children under five, poses severe health risks, including paralysis and death. Despite India being polio-free for over a decade, experts warn that vigilance is essential to prevent resurgence.
Dr. Subhasis Roy, a child specialist at Manipal Hospital, Kolkata, highlighted, “An unvaccinated child is a weak link, risking their health and that of the entire community.” He advocates for the Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV) as part of routine immunizations starting at six weeks, essential for building immunity against the virus.
India’s successful immunization efforts—culminating in over a billion doses administered annually—illustrate the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates. The Indian Academy of Pediatrics stresses adherence to the vaccination schedule, which includes multiple doses of oral and inactivated polio vaccines. In Kolkata, the health authorities are particularly focused on ensuring access to vaccinations amid increasing awareness. As the city’s population grows, public health officials are calling for community participation to safeguard children against this preventable disease. High immunization rates are vital for protecting not just individual health, but also public health in densely populated urban areas like Kolkata.