RIMS hosts workshop on 'Vaccine Preventable Diseases Surveillance'
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, December 11 2025: A 1-day workshop on "Vaccine Preventable Diseases (VPD)-AFP, MR & DPT Surveillance" was held at the Seminar Hall of the Department of Community Medicine, Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Imphal today.

The workshop was organised by the Department of Community Medicine in collaboration with the National Public Health Surveillance Project, Imphal Unit, World Health Organisation (WHO).

As per a release issued by RIMS, the workshop saw active participation from interns, postgraduate trainees, senior residents, faculty members, and departmental staff.

The workshop was conducted under the overall supervision of Prof Shantibala K, Head of the Department of Community Medicine, RIMS, with both technical and financial support from the WHO.

Dr Daokho Apao, Surveillance Medical Officer, WHO, served as the resource person for the technical sessions.

The event began with a welcome address by Dr Jalina Laishram, Associate Professor and VPD Surveillance Nodal Person at RIMS.

During the technical session, Dr Daokho Apao delivered detailed insights on strengthening surveillance mechanisms for major vaccine-preventable diseases, including Acute Flaccid Paralysis (AFP), Measles-Rubella (MR), Diphtheria, Pertussis, and Neonatal Tetanus.

Participants were trained on standard case definitions, correct sample collection procedures, appropriate transport media, and essential time-bound reporting requirements.

The session also highlighted practical strategies for identifying suspected cases and ensuring timely referral of specimens, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness of VPD surveillance at the institutional and community levels.

The workshop concluded with an interactive discussion, reinforcing the importance of robust surveillance systems in preventing outbreaks and safeguarding public health.

Comment