Japanese Encephalitis Vaccination Drive: Over 1 Lakh Children Vaccinated in Pune

Pune, 13th March 2025: The Japanese encephalitis vaccination campaign, launched by the state government, is being actively implemented in Pune, Raigad, and Parbhani districts, along with the municipal areas of Panvel, Parbhani, Pimpri-Chinchwad, and Pune. Since its commencement on March 1, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has successfully vaccinated over 1 lakh children, as part of efforts to curb the spread of the disease.

Under this vaccination initiative, a total of 10,43,420 children, aged 1 to 15 years, are targeted for immunization in Pune city. Dr. Nina Borade, Chief Health Officer of PMC, stated that 1,04,540 children have been vaccinated so far. To ensure smooth execution, PMC has established implementation and reporting cells at 15 regional offices, with circle and regional medical officers coordinating efforts in their respective zones.

A total of 6,692 vaccination sessions have been planned, covering primary and secondary schools, anganwadis, and community centers across Pune. The initiative is being carried out by 522 trained healthcare workers, supported by 365 ASHA workers, 1,092 anganwadi workers, and 848 teachers. Additionally, medical and nursing colleges in Pune have been engaged to aid in the campaign.

“We have also sought support from private doctors in Pune to encourage parents to get their children vaccinated,” said Dr. Rajesh Dighe, Assistant Health Officer, PMC.

Why Pune is Part of the Vaccination Campaign
Japanese encephalitis cases have historically been reported in Vidarbha and Marathwada, where the vaccine is already included in government immunization programs. However, due to increased migration, cases have now been detected in Pune as well.

“The government has launched this preventive vaccination drive in select districts, including Pune, to curb the disease. It is crucial to vaccinate children in areas where cases have been reported,” said Dr. Aarti Kinikar, Head of the Pediatrics Department, Sassoon General Hospital.

Key Details of the Vaccination Campaign:
Target Group: Children aged 1 to 15 years
Total Target: 10,43,420 children
Achieved (So Far): 1,04,540 children vaccinated
With the campaign gaining momentum, authorities are urging parents to get their children immunized to protect them from this potentially fatal disease.