The EPI (Expanded Program on Immunization) Center at RHC Dijkot plays a vital role in protecting children and communities from preventable diseases. Located within the Rural Health Centre (RHC) Dijkot, this center is dedicated to offering free, government-supported vaccination services for infants, children, and pregnant women. It acts as a frontline defense against major public health threats by ensuring immunization coverage for the local population.
Purpose and Importance
The primary goal of the EPI Center is to eliminate vaccine-preventable diseases such as polio, measles, diphtheria, tuberculosis, hepatitis, and tetanus. By administering a structured immunization schedule to children and expectant mothers, the center helps reduce infant mortality, prevent outbreaks, and promote community health awareness.
Facility Overview
The EPI Center is integrated into the premises of RHC Dijkot, making it easily accessible for local residents. The facility is equipped with:
- Cold Chain System: To safely store vaccines at required temperatures
- Vaccination Room: Clean and organized space for administering vaccines
- Data and Record Unit: For maintaining vaccination records and birth registration details
- Waiting Area: For mothers, children, and families during routine immunization days
Key Immunization Services
The EPI Center provides vaccinations according to the official government schedule, which includes:
- BCG (Tuberculosis) – Given at birth
- Polio (OPV/IPV) – Administered multiple times from birth to 15 months
- Penta Vaccine – Combines protection against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, hepatitis B, and Haemophilus influenzae type b
- Measles Vaccines – Given at 9 and 15 months
- Vitamin A Supplementation – To support immunity and eye health
- Tetanus Toxoid (TT) – Provided to pregnant women to prevent neonatal tetanus
Target Groups
The EPI Center focuses on immunizing the following groups:
- Newborns and infants (up to 15 months)
- Children under five years of age
- Pregnant women (for tetanus shots)
- Unvaccinated children during outreach and follow-up visits
Awareness and Counseling
The EPI Center also educates parents about the importance of vaccines, the right schedule, and the possible side effects. Staff members counsel mothers on how to keep their child’s immunization card safe and when to return for the next dose. Health workers also conduct home visits in nearby areas to ensure no child is left unvaccinated.
Staff and Services
The center is staffed by trained vaccinators, lady health visitors (LHVs), and health technicians who work under the supervision of RHC Dijkot’s medical team. These professionals are skilled in managing cold chain equipment, recording data, and dealing with hesitant parents in a respectful and informative manner.
Outreach and Campaigns
In addition to routine immunization, the EPI Center takes part in:
- Polio eradication campaigns (door-to-door vaccination drives)
- National Immunization Days (NIDs)
- Catch-up drives for missed vaccines
- Public health awareness sessions in schools and communities
Cold Chain & Vaccine Safety
Maintaining vaccine potency is critical, and the EPI Center strictly follows cold chain protocols. All vaccines are stored in dedicated refrigerators with temperature logs, and are regularly inspected by health authorities to ensure safe handling and delivery.
Community Trust and Impact
The EPI Center at RHC Dijkot has successfully built trust among local families. By offering consistent, free, and safe immunizations, it contributes directly to reducing preventable illnesses and improving child survival rates. Its presence reduces the need for people to travel far for basic vaccinations, especially in emergencies or during newborn care.
Conclusion
The EPI Center at RHC Dijkot is a critical pillar in the region’s healthcare system. It ensures every child gets a fair start in life by being protected from deadly diseases. Through dedicated staff, awareness drives, and reliable services, the center plays a life-saving role in community health development. Every vaccinated child is a step closer to a healthier, disease-free future for Dijkot.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who can visit the EPI Center at RHC Dijkot?
Infants, children under five, and pregnant women are eligible for free vaccinations at the EPI Center.
Are the vaccines free of cost?
Yes, all vaccines at the EPI Center are provided free of charge under the government immunization program.
What vaccines are given to newborns?
Newborns usually receive the BCG (for TB), oral polio vaccine, and the first dose of Penta vaccine as per the schedule.
Is vaccination safe for my baby?
Yes, vaccines are thoroughly tested and stored safely. Some mild fever or swelling may occur, which is normal and temporary.
Can I get my child’s immunization card from the center?
Yes, the staff will issue and update your child’s immunization card after each vaccination visit.
What if I missed a vaccine date?
You can visit the EPI Center anytime during working hours, and the staff will arrange a catch-up vaccination.
Does the center participate in polio campaigns?
Yes, the center is actively involved in polio eradication campaigns and door-to-door vaccination programs.