Mangaluru: The mandatory 'Measles and Rubella (MR) vaccination drive' planned by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India at Lourdes Central School for children aged between 5 and 15 witnessed an overwhelming response from students on Saturday, February 11 between 9.15 am and 12 pm.

Many parents supported and brought their children for vaccination. LCS school principal Fr Robert D’souza made elaborate arrangements and allotted rooms to ensure the drive was conducted smoothly.

A team of 2 doctors Dr Rajeshwari, Dr Preethi and 9 vaccinators conducted the immunisation process for the students.

Earlier, a briefing session on 'Measles – Rubella vaccine' initiated by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India was held for parents on January 24 at Bejai Church Hall. Two sessions were held. One for K G to class 5 and the other for class 6 to class 9. A large number of parents participated in this session.

The resource persons were Dr Sudharshan C M, project medical officer of District Health Centre Mangaluru and a parent of a student, and Dr Sathish Chandra Surveillance officer from W H O.

Both the Medical Officers briefed the parents about the vaccine and how it will protect children from major deadly disease like measles and rubella, often got in childhood. The queries raised by the parents were answered by the resource persons patiently, clearing all doubts and apprehensions.

The principal in his address urged the parents to motivate their children to take the vaccine and make use of the benefits provided by the Government of India.

All staff and non-teaching staff cooperated for the smooth functioning of M.R. Vaccination.

Linet Pereira was the coordinator for KG to class 5, Suchitha was a coordinator for 6 to 9.