In a targeted push to bridge gaps in preventive healthcare, pediatricians Dr. Anindya Banerjee and Dr. Sayantan Banerjee from RBL Hospital have supported a chickenpox vaccination drive for underprivileged girls under the G.A.U.R.I. (Generating Awareness on Underprivileged Girls’ Right to Immunization) initiative. Led by Novo Medi Sciences Pvt. Ltd. with support from CRY (Child Rights and You), the campaign aimed to expand access to immunisation while promoting public participation through a missed call awareness initiative.
Despite progress in immunisation, several vaccines, including chickenpox, are not part of India’s Universal Immunization Programme, leaving many children—especially in low-income and rural communities—unprotected. Doctors highlighted that the disease, caused by the varicella virus, remains highly contagious and can lead to complications such as infections, scarring, and risks during pregnancy. Dr. Arindam Banerjee stressed that limited access continues to expose vulnerable children, particularly girls, to preventable health risks, while Dr. Sayantan Banerjee noted that awareness gaps further widen inequities in vaccine coverage.
The initiative utilised Nexipox Plus®, a next-generation varicella vaccine, to improve protection and outreach. It also aimed to reduce healthcare disparities and ensure equitable access for underserved communities.In Kolkata, the drive reflects a growing focus on preventive healthcare services and rising demand for advanced vaccines, signalling opportunities for healthcare providers and pharmaceutical players to expand outreach in underserved segments while strengthening urban immunisation awareness.