Jahangeer Ganaie
Pulwama, May 21: A severe shortage of essential childhood vaccines has caused distress among parents and healthcare workers in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district.
According to reports, critical vaccines—including Penta (Pentavalent), IPV (Inactivated Polio Vaccine), RVV (Rotavirus Vaccine), and PCV (Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine)—are unavailable at multiple vaccination centres across the district.
A health worker involved in immunisation efforts, speaking anonymously, revealed that the shortage has persisted for the past two months. “We are facing repeated issues, and parents often get frustrated when we have to send them back without vaccinating their children due to unavailability,” the worker said.
Parents have raised urgent concerns about the health risks posed by this disruption, fearing that delays in immunisation could leave infants and young children vulnerable to preventable diseases. They said that vaccination sessions are scheduled weekly, and despite the expectation of maintaining adequate stock, the supply chain has been hampered over recent weeks for reasons unknown.
This situation has led parents and local representatives to seek immediate intervention from higher authorities. They have appealed to Deputy Commissioner Pulwama, Basharat Qayoom (IAS), and MLA Waheed Para to address the crisis immediately.
A concerned parent said, “This vaccine shortage is endangering our children’s health. We urge the authorities to restore supply chains, ensure equitable distribution, and keep the public informed about when supplies will be replenished.”
Deputy Commissioner Pulwama, Basharat Qayoom said that he has instructed the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) and relevant officials to take immediate steps to ensure the availability of vaccines. “Most vaccines are currently available at several centres, and the supply is expected to be replenished by this Saturday,” the DC assured
It is important to note that the vaccines in question—Penta, IPV, RVV, and PCV—are vital for protecting children against serious diseases. Penta vaccine guards against Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, Hepatitis B, and Hib. IPV prevents polio, RVV shields against rotavirus-induced diarrhoea, and PCV protects against pneumococcal infections like pneumonia and meningitis. These vaccines are integral to the routine immunisation schedule for infants and young children.
