KARACHI: The Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) Sindh, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), hosted a handing over ceremony of mobile tablets to enhance real-time surveillance reporting of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases (VPDs).
The event was graced by Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho, Minister for Health and Population Welfare, as the Chief Guest at the EPI Conference Hall.
Dr. Luo Dapeng, WHO Representative in Pakistan, attended the ceremony, alongside Dr. Mukhtiar Bhayo, Head of WHO Sub-Office Sindh, who extended a warm welcome and acknowledged the leadership’s dedication to strengthening VPDs surveillance.
During the ceremony, 1,100 tablets distributed among VPD surveillance focal persons of health facilities to facilitate real-time data reporting. In addition, EPI, in collaboration with WHO, will recognize outstanding performers in ongoing immunization efforts through non-monetary rewards. The awards will be presented to the best-performing doctors, vaccinators, and Lady Health Workers (LHWs) actively contributing to the Big Catch-Up campaign.
Dr. Ghulam Hussain Buledi, Provincial Surveillance Coordinator, highlighted the challenges faced by the surveillance team in data entry and archiving. He emphasized that the introduction of this new Android-based application will streamline data management and significantly improve field operations.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Luo Dapeng stated, "Today marks a historic milestone as we transition from manual data entry to a digital system, enabling real-time reporting. We are committed to integrating surveillance data into existing health systems to enhance efficiency and accuracy." He extended his gratitude to Madam Minister for her leadership in advancing immunization and public health efforts in Sindh.
Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho expressed her appreciation to WHO for its unwavering support in strengthening immunization initiatives. She emphasized the need to integrate surveillance data with other healthcare systems to ensure comprehensive disease monitoring and response.
Mr. Rehan Iqbal Baloch, while acknowledging WHO's support, urged further enhancements in data systems to ensure maximum efficiency. He requested a follow-up meeting with WHO experts to refine and optimize the system.
Dr. Muhammad Naeem, Program Director, EPI Sindh, applauded WHO’s contribution and reiterated EPI’s commitment to implementing innovative solutions for more accurate and timely reporting. He emphasized that this transition to digital reporting is a significant step towards a more effective and data-driven immunization program.
Dr. Sohail Raza Shaikh highlighted the significance of integrating digital tools into the surveillance system. He emphasized that real-time data collection will enable faster response times and improve overall immunization coverage. He also stressed the importance of capacity-building initiatives to train surveillance officers in effectively utilizing the new technology., applauded WHO’s contribution and reiterated EPI’s commitment to implementing innovative solutions for more accurate and timely reporting. He emphasized that this transition to digital reporting is a significant step towards a more effective and data-driven immunization program.
The event session was moderated by Dr. Arslan Memon, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, ensuring smooth discussions and engagement of all key stakeholders.
The event was attended by District Surveillance Officers, WHO, UNICEF, TFK, the EPI team, and other partners, reflecting a strong collaborative effort to enhance immunization data management and surveillance.
This initiative marks a transformational step in disease surveillance, ensuring that real-time, data-driven decision-making strengthens routine immunization efforts and contributes to better public health outcomes across Sindh.
