Social Mobilization support for Polio, Routine Immunization and Behaviour Change Communication for Community Empowerment in Seven High Priority Blocks and Municipalities of Howrah District, West Bengal:

Eventhough India is declared as a polio free country, the Panchla area of Howrah district is still resistant to vaccination. NOSKK implements its polio eradication program in this Muslim dominated area where superstition and myths are still prevalent. NOSKK main strategy is community mobilization and awareness which includes religious leaders ensuring mosque announcement on benefits and importance of polio vaccination. Continuous campaign on polio vaccination, sensitization programs of community members, service providers has resulted in high demand for immunization and the numbers are still growing

• 233 children fully immunized

• 2378 children vaccinated

• 235 pregnant women received TT /2B