Overview of the Readiness Meeting
A district readiness meeting was convened in Sanghar to review preparations for the upcoming Measles and Rubella (MR) and Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) vaccination campaign. Chaired by Deputy Commissioner Sarah Javed, the session focused on ensuring a smooth and effective rollout across the district from November 17 to November 2. The meeting brought together health officials, local administrators, and frontline workers to align strategies, logistics, and community engagement plans.
Key Objectives for the MR/OPV Campaign
Officials highlighted the primary goals: achieving high immunization coverage, reaching hard-to-access children, and maintaining robust cold-chain systems to preserve vaccine efficacy. Emphasis was placed on reducing the incidence of measles, rubella, and polio through synchronized MR and OPV administration. The campaign aims to protect vulnerable populations, curb outbreaks, and strengthen routine vaccination participation in the district.
Logistics, Cold Chain, and Supply Chain Preparedness
The meeting reviewed vaccine stocks, cold-chain equipment, and transport arrangements to ensure timely delivery to vaccination sites. Protocols for maintaining the cold chain, monitoring temperature logs, and rapid replenishment of supplies were discussed. Logistics teams outlined strategies for blister-pack distribution, daily stock reconciliation, and contingency plans for weather or transportation disruptions that could affect vaccine integrity.
School and Community Outreach
With a large portion of the target population reachable through schools and community centers, outreach plans were sharpened. Health workers will coordinate with school authorities, parents, and local leaders to raise awareness about the MR/OPV campaign, address vaccine hesitancy, and encourage high attendance. Mobile vaccination teams will operate in underserved areas to ensure equity in access to immunization services.
Health Worker Training and Safety Protocols
Training refreshers were scheduled for vaccinators and supervisors, focusing on proper injection techniques, dose administration, and post-vaccination observation. Safety protocols, infection control, and emergency response measures were reinforced to protect both recipients and healthcare staff during the drive.
Data, Monitoring, and Accountability
Accurate data capture and real-time monitoring were identified as critical components of the campaign. Supervisors will track site performance, vaccination counts, and coverage gaps to guide corrective actions. A feedback loop with district health authorities will help ensure transparency and accountability throughout the rollout.
Community Engagement and Addressing Concerns
Officials stressed proactive communication to dispel rumors and clarify the benefits of MR and OPV vaccination. Local media, religious and community leaders, and school officials will be engaged to disseminate clear messages about safety, importance, and schedules. Targeted outreach will address families that may be hesitant or unaware of campaign dates.
Timeline and Next Steps
The campaign is scheduled to begin on November 17, with activities planned across urban and rural centers and in hard-to-reach areas. The readiness meeting established a timeline for final preparations, site readiness checks, vaccine distribution, and daily reporting during the campaign period. Ongoing coordination between the Deputy Commissioner’s office and health departments will monitor progress and resolve issues promptly.
Implications for Public Health in Sanghar
Successful implementation of the MR/OPV vaccination drive will contribute to higher immunization coverage, reduced disease transmission, and stronger community protection against measles, rubella, and poliovirus. By prioritizing accessibility, safety, and clear communication, Sanghar seeks to set a model for effective immunization campaigns in similar districts.
