Quetta: In a significant push towards enhancing child health, Balochistan Health Secretary Saleh Muhammad Baloch visited the UNICEF office to preside over a crucial meeting focused on vaccination against 12 diseases under the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI). The meeting was attended by top health specialists and UNICEF officers, where they discussed strategies to intensify vaccination efforts across the province.
According to Directorate General Public Relation – Govt of Balochistan, the meeting saw the participation of key figures including UNICEF Child Survival Development Manager Dr. Muhammad Humayun Amiri, Health Specialist UNICEF Dr. Amir Akram, and Immunization Officer UNICEF Dr. Izzatullah, among others. The attendees were briefed about the critical need for vaccinations against diseases like measles, diphtheria, and tetanus, which are essential for children from birth to 15 months.
The Health Secretary stressed the importance of timely and complete vaccination to prevent deadly diseases in children. He emphasized that any negligence in administering vaccines would not be tolerated and highlighted the collaborative efforts needed between UNICEF and the Department of Health to ensure widespread coverage. He also mentioned the support from the Chief Minister and Chief Secretary of Balochistan Health in bolstering the health sector initiatives.
The meeting underscored the need for active participation from all UNICEF officers and support staff to enhance the vaccination system and ensure no child is left out of the routine vaccination schedule. The goal is to raise awareness and provide protection against 12 significant diseases to all children in both urban and rural areas of Balochistan.