Pulse Polio round for 2024 kicked off in Chandigarh on Sunday with a unique initiative taking center stage — the Night Vaccination Teams. Led by the Health Department, these teams were established to ensure comprehensive coverage, especially among vulnerable populations who might be missed during regular vaccination hours.

Comprising a police personnel, a vaccinator, a malaria worker, and a driver, these Night Vaccination Teams — dubbed as ‘Taare Zameen Par – A Night Vigil’ — ventured into the streets during evening hours to reach out to the children who are often overlooked during typical vaccination sessions.

These teams targeted communities such as nomads, rag-pickers, beggars, and the homeless, who may not have regular access to healthcare services or might be on the move during the day. By navigating through alleys, streets, and makeshift shelters, they aimed to locate and vaccinate children aged zero to five years, ensuring that every child received the essential polio vaccine.

The initiative underscores the commitment of the Health Department to leave no child behind in the fight against polio. Recognizing the importance of reaching marginalized communities, the Night Vaccination Teams represent a proactive approach to address the unique challenges of immunization outreach.

Director Health Services Dr Suman Singh flagged off these teams at the administrative block of GMSH-16, emphasizing the significance of their role in the campaign. Their efforts complemented the broader strategy of setting up Pulse Polio booths across various healthcare facilities, schools, markets, and transit points in UT Chandigarh.

On the first day of the campaign, approximately 35,000 children were vaccinated, marking a promising start to the Pulse Polio Round for 2024. The inclusion of Night Vaccination Teams highlighted the innovative measures undertaken to achieve comprehensive immunization coverage and move closer to the goal of polio eradication in UT Chandigarh.