Pattaya continued its anti-polio campaign, again offering free vaccinations to infants and toddlers, as well as a contest to encourage healthy children.
The Dec. 15 event at the new Pattaya Hospital on Soi Buakaow was led by Deputy Mayor Verawat Khakhay, who invited parents of children under age 5 to get their youngsters vaccinated against the debilitating disease. He also led the “Healthy Little Ones” competition for the healthiest toddler.
Deputy Mayor Verawat Khakhay (right) helps administer polio vaccine to area children.
The campaign is part of the nationwide “Health Policy for No Polio” that calls for at least 90 percent of Thai infants to receive three polio vaccinations in their first years of life, aggressive monitoring of Acute Flaccid Paralysis cases, investigation and control of active disease cases and promotion of anti-polio measures in the general public.
Pattaya, as one of the country’s busiest crossroads of international visitors, is a weak point in the country’s defenses, as it hosts many visitors from the developing world where polio remains a problem, officials believe.
The event was supported by area Rotary Clubs and volunteers from 34 communities.
Children who received their first vaccinations must return again on January 19 for more inoculations. For more information, contact 038-420-562 ext. 104 or 105.
