The UNICEF-supported School Immunisation Programme (SIP) against tetanus, launched last year in eight districts, has expanded its coverage to 24 districts till date. It is expected to cover all 75 districts within a few years. Besides the school-going children of grades one to three, the SIP also targets out-of-school children in the age group of six to eight years. According to its promoters, SIP is more effective than door-to-door vaccination. They say, for instance, that in Dhading district it has been successful in covering 80 per cent of its target audience. The TT (Tetanus Toxoid) vaccine especially protects women as well as the infants from maternal and neonatal tetanus. This year, SIP, which runs till December 28, aims to cover 1.6 million children across 24 districts.

But it is equally important that those covered during the first phase be given booster doses as the effect of TT vaccine tends to wear off as the children grow up. The SIP promoters also say that booster campaigns have been satisfactory as well, due mainly to the collective effort of teachers, parents and local authorities. It is heartening to see people from all sectors of society unite for a common cause. The main challenge is to ensure that the programme covers children in all 75 districts within the targeted period. Success of immunisation drive will protect the future manpower against a variety of diseases, ultimately reducing the state’s health costs.