Pune division health department conducts mass measles screening and vaccination in ashramshalas to protect children after a Jalgaon outbreak. Image by puneripages.in
By Prashant for PuneriPages.in
PUNE: In a swift preventive measure, the Pune division health department is launching a comprehensive screening and vaccination drive for measles across all residential tribal schools (ashramshalas). This initiative follows a significant measles outbreak in an ashramshala in the neighboring Jalgaon district, prompting health officials to act decisively to protect vulnerable student populations.
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The Catalyst: The Outbreak in Jalgaon
The health scare was triggered by a measles outbreak in a Jalgaon ashramshala, where several students tested positive. Authorities are now taking preemptive action to ensure that a similar spread does not occur in Pune division’s schools.
Pune Division’s Comprehensive Action Plan
Health officials have outlined a detailed plan to protect children in the Pune division, covering Pune, Satara, and Solapur districts:
- Target Group: Students residing in ashramshalas.
- Geographic Scope: Entire Pune division.
- The Process: Health teams will conduct mass screenings to identify children showing symptoms such as fever and rash.
- Vaccination: Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated children will receive the measles-rubella (MR) vaccine to ensure immunity.
Why Ashramshalas are a Priority
Ashramshalas are considered “congregate settings,” where close and prolonged contact among students increases the risk of rapid disease transmission. Preventive measures in these schools are crucial to stopping outbreaks before they spread to wider communities.
Official Directives and Health Advisory
Dr. Radhakishan Pawar, Deputy Director of Health Services for the Pune division, has issued clear instructions to school administrations and parents:
- Immediately isolate any child showing measles-like symptoms.
- Report suspected cases promptly to the nearest health center.
- Ensure that all eligible children complete their vaccination schedules without delay.
These measures aim to ensure the safety of students and prevent a wider health crisis.
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