Bengaluru Achieves Strong Start in Pulse Polio Drive with Over 11 Lakh Children Vaccinated on Day One

The Pulse Polio Immunization Programme began on a strong note in Bengaluru, where the first day itself recorded an impressive turnout. Health officials confirmed that more than 11 lakh children under the age of five received polio drops across various vaccination centres in the city. The early progress has already brought the city close to its target, reflecting strong coordination between health workers and civic authorities.

According to the data shared by the Greater Bengaluru Authority, a total of 11,06,535 children were vaccinated on the opening day, achieving nearly 96.4 percent of the planned coverage. Officials described the response as highly encouraging, especially considering that the achievement was made entirely through fixed vaccination centres without any door to door visits on the first day.

The campaign, which runs from June 28 to July 1, aims to cover a total of 11,47,872 children across the city. Health authorities have planned additional outreach in the coming days to ensure that no eligible child is left out, particularly those who may have missed vaccination on the first day.

Zone wise data shows strong participation across all parts of the city. The central zone recorded 1,59,106 children vaccinated, while the eastern zone reported 1,73,781. The western zone contributed the highest with 2,81,369 children, followed closely by the northern zone with 2,78,880. The southern zone accounted for 2,13,399 children receiving polio drops.

Most vaccinations were carried out at designated health facilities including urban primary health centres, maternity hospitals, anganwadi centres, schools, and our clinic facilities spread across different wards. Officials reported that 10,27,347 children were covered through these established centres alone, showing the strength of Bengaluru’s public health network.

In addition to fixed centres, vaccination was also conducted at high footfall locations such as railway stations, bus terminals, markets, and public events. Around 73,987 children were vaccinated at these transit and gathering points, helping reach families on the move and ensuring wider coverage.

Health officials emphasized that the next three days will focus on tracking and reaching children who missed vaccination. Mobile teams will continue field visits to ensure complete coverage under the Pulse Polio programme. Authorities have reiterated that consistent participation from families plays a crucial role in maintaining a polio free environment in the city.