Dibrugarh: Altogether 72,000 people living across Majuli, the world’s largest river island, are set to receive a vital protective shield against the deadly Japanese Encephalitis (JE) virus.The district health and family welfare department launched an ambitious 21-day adult vaccination campaign on Monday to curb the spread of the vector-borne disease. Given the island’s unique geography and vulnerability, the localised health mission is seen as a critical step in safeguarding the lives of the island’s diverse communities.The intensive drive, which commenced on Jan 19, focuses on individuals between the ages of 15 and 65. To ensure total coverage despite the island’s challenging terrain, the administration has activated 344 vaccination centres spanning a network of 468 villages, 426 schools, and 120 anganwadi centres. This decentralised approach allows residents to access the life-saving vaccine — provided by the govt entirely free of cost — near their homes.“Our primary goal is to create a robust wall of immunity within the district. This vaccine is completely safe and provides long-term protection with just a single dose. We urge every eligible citizen to come forward, as the cooperation of the public is the only way to make Majuli a JE-free zone,” said Dr Kishore Kaman, joint director of health services, Majuli.To boost public confidence and set a positive precedent, a special vaccination camp was organised on Jan 19 at the district commissioner’s office. District commissioner Ratul Chandra Pathak personally took the first dose to inaugurate the session, followed by assistant commissioners Netra Kamal Bora, Simanta Buragohain and Anurag Pritam Borbora.The district commissioner stressed that the administration is leaving no stone unturned to reach even the most remote sandbars and villages of the riverine island district.“Leading by example is crucial in public health missions. By coming forward today, the entire district staff is sending a clear message: the vaccine is safe and essential. We have mobilised resources across 468 villages to ensure that our target of 72,000 people is met within the 21-day window. I appeal to every resident of this island to prioritise this vaccination to protect themselves and the community from this severe disease,” the DC said.With Japanese Encephalitis remaining a threat in the Brahmaputra valley, especially during the monsoon season, the pre-emptive strike is seen as a vital intervention for the residents of the world’s largest river island.
