Kathmandu: With the recent declaration of full immunization in the districts of Kathmandu, Nuwakot, Rasuwa, Sunsari, Dolpa, and Kailali, Nepal has now achieved full immunization status across all its districts. This milestone marks a significant achievement in the country’s public health efforts.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the journey towards full immunization assurance and sustainability began nearly two decades ago, spearheaded by the Child Health and Immunization Service Section under the Family Welfare Division. Dr. Abhiyan Gautam, the Chief of the section, highlighted that Palpa was the first district to be declared fully immunized. He emphasized the importance of this declaration as a critical step towards ensuring the health security of children.
Dr. Bibek Lal, Chief of the Family Welfare Division, attributed the success to the dedication of health workers, community health volunteers, and the leadership of local representatives. The trust of guardians and community collaboration also played vital roles. A door-to-door campaign is conducted annually to ensure children under two receive all necessary vaccines, filling any gaps for those who missed earlier doses.
Dr. Gautam further noted that children below two years are administered 18 doses of nine different types of vaccines. Madhes Province has already achieved full immunization, and other provinces are making preparations to follow suit.
The initiative received support from the World Health Organization, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, UNICEF, and other organizations, contributing to the nationwide achievement of declaring all districts as fully immunized zones.