The Indian government has started a nationwide campaign to eradicate Measles & Rubella. The government has directed the schools to organize a camp to administer the vaccine to children in the age group of 9 months to 15years. An orientation was held to enlighten the students regarding the MMR/MR (Measles & Rubello) ailments. Students from classes VI to XII were explained the purpose of the campaign and the need to get inoculated, by two medical practitioners, Dr Niraj Desai and Dr Anand Kantilal Sontakke, who are country officers from India working in association with World Health Organization. They explained that it is a mandatory campaign initiated by the Ministry of Human Resource Development and Department of School, Education & Literacy. Having explained the need to get inoculated and the gravity of the disease for 10 to 15 minutes, the students were asked to come out with their queries. A few students raised queries such as,’ What are the symptoms of Measles and Rubella?’, ‘What is the mortality rate if infected with the disease?’ and ‘ What is the guarantee that even after having vaccinated, one would be free from the disease, as cases have been identified as told to the student by her father?’ The speaker, Dr Anand Kantikar was very impressed by the query raised as it is indeed a matter of great concern and a matter of ongoing discussion in the medical community. He wanted to know whether the student’s father was a doctor. The student shared that it’s her family doctor who had shared the piece of information. Dr Anand Kantilal assured that if not 100%, the vaccination would ensure 98% safety from the diseases as the possibility of getting infected to it is high being air borne diseases and being a part of community life. Towards the end almost all students raised their hands giving their consent to the immunization campaign. It was a very educating and enlightening session. The Principal, Ms Preeta Pillai told the gathering to apprise their parents of the orientation and get their consent in the circular that would be distributed in regard to it so as to make the program a great success in the school. She thanked both the medical practitioners and assured them of inviting them as soon as the dates are fixed.
