Director of the Expanded Program on Immunization, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed Awan, has urged parents to ensure that their children under the age of two complete the full course of pneumonia immunization, as per the established vaccine schedule.
In an interview with Radio Pakistan’s Correspondent Qasim Bukhari, Dr. Mukhtar emphasized that the pneumonia vaccine is administered at the ages of six, ten, and fourteen weeks and is available free of charge at all health centers.
Parents are strongly encouraged not to delay vaccinations for children who may have missed routine shots for any reason, and Dr. Mukhtar highlighted that the Expanded Program on Immunization offers free vaccines against 12 deadly diseases, including pneumonia, to children under two years old.
These vaccines can be accessed at major hospitals, Tehsil and District Headquarter Hospitals, as well as in centers for the immunization extension program, Primary Health Centers, Rural Health Centers, and Tehsil and District Headquarters Hospitals.
Underlining the severity of pneumonia, particularly in young children, Dr. Mukhtar stressed the importance of timely vaccination. He advised parents to seek immediate medical attention if their child shows symptoms of pneumonia, such as cough, fever, or difficulty in breathing.
Furthermore, Dr. Mukhtar urged parents to dress their young children in warm clothes and avoid exposing them to cold weather.
