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I was here to visit the two worst polio affected states — Bihar and Uttar Pradesh — and monitor the immunisation programmes. I have visited places like Darbhanga and Madhubani in Bihar, and Nadarganj and Sarojningar in Uttar Pradesh. Overall, I’m satisfied with the commitment of both the state governments towards polio eradication.
* How would you rate the present status of polio eradication in India?
India stands second in terms of the number of polio cases in the world after Nigeria. Polio surveillance is the best here. Even Nigeria is taking a lesson from India. But, large population, poor sanitation, malnutrition and high mobility of labourers in India present a favourable environment for the virus to grow, thus making eradication difficult. It is for this reason that I say that if I were a polio virus, I would like to stay in India.
* Recently there were two deaths reported in Bihar because of polio vaccination. Questions are being raised about the safety of the vaccine.
I have been informed about the cases in Bihar, where two children allegedly died after taking the polio vaccine. But there is no truth in the allegation. It was a coincidence that they had taken the drop just before they succumbed to some other disease. The vaccine is absolutely safe.
* The number of P3 cases is rising in India and even P1 cases are being reported from time to time. Will it be possible to control the spread of the virus in these two states?
I will not be surprised if isolated cases are reported even in the coming year. Even though increase in Type 3 polio cases is regrettable, but I will not recommend that the state governments shift their focus to the Type 3 virus. The best thing that India can do is to maintain its focus on first eradicating Type 1 and then think about Type 3. I personally believe that if Uttar Pradesh and Bihar are able to run regular quality immunisation programmes, then India would be able to eradicate polio by the end of 2008.
* What are your suggestions for improvement in the polio eradication programme of the country?
It is most important to strengthen the routine immunisation programme. This way even P3 can be handled through use of trivalent polio vaccine during routine immunisation programmes. Missed houses still remain a problem, thus there is need to strengthen the child tracking system. Then, despite decrease in the number of P1 cases this year, I would again request the states to continue vaccination drives. Otherwise, there will be more chances of resurgence of the virus. If these things are taken care of, then there is nothing that can stop the country from eradicating the virus.
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