EPI system effective in Quetta Division, 21 measles cases controlled, decision to revive inactive BHUs
Report: Balochistan 24
Quetta: The fourth quarterly review meeting of the Divisional Task Force for EPI was held under the chairmanship of Commissioner Quetta Division Shahzeb Khan Kakar to make the routine immunization system effective and stable.
The meeting reiterated the commitment to improve service delivery and increase vaccination coverage under the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI).
Provincial Coordinator EPI Dr. Aftab Hussain Kakar gave a detailed briefing to the meeting and informed about the reforms and new strategies introduced to protect children from vaccine-preventable diseases.
The meeting was attended by district officers, health department officials and representatives of other partner organizations including the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, N-Stop, PPHI, MSPRC.
The quarterly performance report was presented during the meeting and the steps taken for effective accountability system, digital monitoring, and better identification and tracking of zero-dose children were highlighted.
Special attention was paid to ensuring daily attendance of vaccinators through digital application, improvement in Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), and expansion of outreach services.
As a major step forward, it was decided to make inactive Basic Health Units (BHUs) functional, effective deployment of vaccinators, and establishment of fixed vaccination sites in registered private clinics and schools to reach maximum number of children.
Instructions were also issued for installation of waste management system for safe disposal of medical waste in Chaman and Pishin.
Commissioner Shahzeb Khan Kakar appreciated the practical steps taken by EPI and stressed on strict accountability, transparent data, and effective coordination among all concerned departments.
He directed the district health department to increase surveillance visits and ensure quality services at health centers.
The meeting also reviewed the recent polio campaigns, digital data entry applications, MIS systems, and zero-dose tracking strategies.
It was informed that due to timely measures, 21 measles cases reported in Quetta last year were effectively controlled, which is a testament to the success of the improved surveillance and rapid response system.
Under the special instructions of the Chief Minister Balochistan and the Chief Secretary Balochistan, the Divisional Task Force will continue to regularly review performance to ensure continuous improvement in immunization coverage and public health outcomes.
