MR vaccine drive: Parents of children in govt. schools got short notice?

The Measles-Rubella combined vaccine being administered to a child at a primary health centre in Mallathahalli, in Bengaluru on Tuesday. — Photo: K. Murali Kumar

On day one of the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccination drive, parents of children going to government schools were not given the opportunity to refuse the vaccine. They found that their children had been given the shot only when parents returned home from school. In the few private schools, however, several parents exercised their rights and did not give consent for the vaccination.

A headmaster of a government higher primary school in east Bengaluru said the Health Department authorities had told them about the drive only on Monday afternoon. “Parents staying near the school were informed, and two of them refused to allow their children to be vaccinated. We were unable to get consent from other parents. But, we vaccinated the children as it was safe,” he added. Another headmaster of a government high school in the city said: “We had informed parents at a meeting. But, many were not convinced. However, the doctors have told us that it is safe, so we will vaccinate all children.” Health Department officials have decided to carry out more awareness camps to convince parents who are opposed to the drive.

Some schools declared a holiday on the day of vaccination. Children aged four and five of Thumbey Central School on the outskirts of Mangaluru received toffees from their classteacher after their vaccination. “This is to praise thsoe who have come forward overcoming their fear of injection,” said school principal Gangadhar Alva.

Drive in figures

In Bengaluru urban district, 87,155 children were vaccinated. Nine cases of fainting/vomiting were reported. In two PHCs in Rajankunte and Ballur, more than two cases were reported. “Fainting is a common reaction to injections in children, mostly owing to anxiety. Some times it can also occur due to vasovagal attacks. All immunisation sessions were conducted by medical officers trained to manage this scenario,” said Shalini Rajneesh, Principal Secretary, Health and Family Welfare.

In a private school in Rajajinagar, a student who was administered the vaccine, fainted and although department officials said it was not a matter of concern, many parents later backed out. In Shivamogga, one child was admitted with vomiting and was discharged by the evening. Another 40 cases of were reported from Shivamogga and Chickballapur districts. The boy is now doing fine, said Veena, nodal officer, Shivamogga.