Call to action: Threat of TB looms large as BCG vaccine remains out of reach

Health experts say immediate action is needed to cure disease

PESHAWAR: Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG), a vaccine primarily used against tuberculosis, remains out of reach in the province although many children are suffering from tuberculosis.

Paediatricians believe routine immunisation is necessary to ensure good health. However, Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) officials were not responding to the surging demand for BCG vaccines at hospitals.

Speaking to The Express Tribune, an EPI official said, “We can only inform our higher officials. But we do ask people to buy the vaccine from the market for their children.”

A senior health official said they had informed the higher officials but were still waiting for a response.

“The [EPI officials] are enjoying perks and privileges of their jobs and are playing with lives of children,” he said.

Mixed views

Health experts believe the unavailability of the vaccine was not a threat to children’s lives. However, it is needed to ensure quick recovery.

“There are different studies,” Paediatric Association K-P President Dr Amin Jan Gandapur told The Express Tribune. “Some experts say the vaccine increases immunity against tuberculosis by 10% while others say it [increases immunity] by 70%.”

EPI officials said it is government’s responsibility to provide vaccines and protect the lives of its citizens. At a programme held in connection with routine immunisation, Gandapur said the government should take immediate action to eradicate other diseases affecting children just like it is taking measures to eradicate poliovirus from the region.

When contacted, EPI Deputy Director Dr Ayub Roz refused to share details over the phone, saying he will provide the information once press officials visit his office.

According to a report compiled by the district health information system, 19 communicable diseases were detected in some 7,697,421 patients. Out of these, TB was the 10th most common disease. The data revealed some 71,204 TB cases were suspected in the province. Another health expert said around 20% of those suffering from tuberculosis were children.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 22^nd, 2016.