KARACHI: Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho, the Minister of Health, Sindh, chaired a significant Provincial Task Force meeting today, aimed at addressing the pressing issue of Typhoid outbreak in the Karachi and Hyderabad. The meeting was attended by esteemed dignitaries including Rehan Iqbal Balouch, Secretary Health, Dr. Waqar Ahmed, Director General Health, Dr. Muhammad Naeem, Project Director EPI, Mr Irshad Sodhar EOC Coordinator, Mr. Yar Muhammad, Director of Education Department, DSO Aijaz Hussain, Dr. Saqib Shaikh, Director Health Services, DHOs, representatives from UNICEF, WHO, and various partners.
During the meeting, Dr. Muhammad Naeem presented comprehensive data and preparations regarding the Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine (TCV) campaign. It was announced that the TCV campaign is scheduled to commence in Karachi and Hyderabad from May 13th to May 25th, 2024.
Addressing the attendees, Pechuho expressed grave concern over the high number of XDR cases reported last year, exceeding 5000 cases across all districts of Karachi Division and District Hyderabad. Particularly alarming was the prevalence of cases among children under 15 years of age. In response to the Typhoid outbreak, it was deemed imperative to launch the TCV Campaign in Sindh.
The Sindh Plan for the TCV Campaign 2024 aims to target 9.8 million children between the ages of 9 months to 15 years across all districts of Karachi Division and District Hyderabad. This strategic initiative is anticipated to significantly reduce the burden of Typhoid cases. However, it was emphasized that while this campaign is crucial, efforts to improve Routine Immunization coverage must continue unabated.
PD EPI Sindh, has spearheaded the preparation of TCV Campaign activities through the District Health Officers (DHOs). The roles and responsibilities of DHOs are pivotal for the successful implementation of the campaign.
Furthermore, letters are to be issued from PPA, PMA, and respective Deputy Commissioner offices to schools to ensure vaccination. The Home Department has been advised to provide security to the vaccination teams during school and community visits. Microplans will undergo validation and review to ensure all components are adequately addressed. Communication activities will be strengthened, with the IT department broadcasting key messages on vaccine importance, health hygiene measures, and other pertinent diseases like Measles.
The collaborative efforts of all stakeholders are crucial in ensuring the success of the TCV Campaign, which stands as a beacon of hope in mitigating the Typhoid crisis in Sindh.