Significant improvement recorded in routine immunization coverage during last year: Kh. Salman Rafique

Lahore, March 07, 2016 (PPI-OT):Advisor to Chief Minister on Health Kh. Salman Rafique has said that tremendous development has been observed in primary and secondary healthcare as a result of implementation of the Chief Minister’s Health Roadmap. He said that significant improvement has been recorded in routine immunization coverage under Extended Programme of Immunization (EPI) which has increased from 50 percent to 75 plus during the last one year. He said that routine immunization coverage would be enhanced upto 90 to 95 percent within a year which would also reduce maternal mortality rate.

He said this, while addressing a training workshop for master trainers regarding Vaccine Logistic Management Information System (vLMIS) arranged by USAID deliver programme at a local hotel today. Besides, Provincial Coordinator USAID Dr. Nisar Ahmed Cheema, Dr. Tanvir Ahmed, Dr. Zafar Ikram, officials of USAID Programme. EDOs Health of different districts were also present in the workshop. Dr. Nisar Cheema said that VLMIS is implemented in 13 districts of Punjab.

It is a computerized reporting system of EPI in Punjab which has improved reporting by vaccinators and has reduced wastage of vaccine. He said that USAID deliver programme provided technical and financial support in launching of vLMIS. Dr. Cheema said that this programme is being scaled up in remaining 23 districts in two phases, 13 districts in phase-I and 10 districts in phase-II.

Kh. Salman Rafique said that children are future of Pakistan and improved health of children leads to improve productivity. He urged upon the District Health Managers that they should play their active role as a master trainer in training the staff at lower formation level. He disclosed that during the recent meeting of WHO EMRO region countries, WHO has declared Punjab’s Vector Control and Surveillance System as a Role Model and advised the EMRO region countries to replicate Punjab’s Vector Control Model in their countries which is a pride for Health Department Punjab.

Kh. Salman Rafique said that vLMIS will helpful to improve the vaccination coverage by improving data visibility and accountability of staff as well as the improvement of Cold Change Management System. He further said that this system would leave very positive impact in improving the mother and child health and reducing the infant mortality rate. He appreciated the effective cooperation of international development partners for improving healthcare delivery system in Punjab.

For more information, contact:
Rafiullah Usman
Directorate General Public Relations
Government of the Punjab
Lahore.
Tel: +92-42-9201390-86
Website: www.punjab.gov.pk