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EPI

EPI

In alignment with international standards, the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) in Pakistan is dedicated to immunizing all children against a range of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases (VPDs). These include childhood tuberculosis, poliomyelitis, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, hepatitis B, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) pneumonia and meningitis, measles, and diarrhea caused by rotavirus. Under the National Health Support Program (NHSP) in Sindh, a critical objective is to significantly enhance immunization coverage, directly contributing to the province’s progress towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC). The target is to achieve at least a 3-percentage point increase in the provincial coverage of the Penta-1 vaccine and up to a 15-percentage point increase in fully immunized children within lagging areas from the baseline. This comprehensive immunization strategy is a vital component of NHSP’s commitment to ensuring every child lives a healthy life, free from preventable illnesses.

Recruitment Of Vaccinators

The Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) Sindh, in partnership with the Department of Health, Government of Sindh, has conducted a transparent and merit-based recruitment process for vaccinators. This initiative prioritized qualified candidates, providing a platform to demonstrate their skills and competence to an expert panel. Notably, a significant number of female candidates participated. A well-trained vaccinator workforce is crucial for expanding vaccine accessibility, improving coverage rates, and safeguarding communities from preventable diseases, thereby strengthening public health infrastructure. The final selection is nearing completion, and job orders will be issued shortly.
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Quarterly/Monthly Review meetings

Regular review meetings are held in all districts to facilitate the identification of gaps in vaccine coverage, supply chain management, and community outreach, enabling proactive solutions to logistical challenges, vaccine hesitancy, and workforce concerns.

Orientation Session on Birth Dose Initiative

To strengthen newborn immunization, EPI Sindh, in partnership with UNICEF, held an orientation session on the Birth Dose Initiative for JPMC Gynae ward staff, under the leadership of Dr. Halima, HOD. Recognizing the urgent need to protect children from polio and other VPDs from birth, Dr. Halima emphasized the vital role of completing the vaccination schedule. She assured full staff commitment to maximizing coverage and urged caregivers to proactively contribute to community health through vaccination.

Two day training on the Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP)

EPI Sindh conducted a two-day training session on the Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) for 30 district focal persons (DFPs). Participants received training on the EPA 1977 Act, 2022 Rules and Regulations, hospital waste management techniques, and the impact of climate change on children. Chaired by Dr. M. Naeem Rajput, Project Director, and co-chaired by Dr. Sohail Raza Sheikh, Additional Project Director.Other notable attendees included Dr. Inaam Bhatti, Deputy Director Operations, FDI, and Dr. Khalilullah Memon, Deputy Director, EPI, Naeem Asghar, Vaccine Management Specialist, Dr. Ibrahim National ESMP Coordinator, Mr. Fahad Fehmi EVM Coordinator co facilitated by Mr. Zulfiqar Memon ESMP Coordinator Sindh. The ESMP is a strategic framework crucial for minimizing environmental and social impacts in healthcare settings, particularly in managing medical waste and protecting vulnerable populations. Effective implementation relies on regular monitoring, capacity-building, and stakeholder engagement.