'Affected cases from outside behind Delhi polio'

Delhi CM blames the resurfacing of polio cases in Delhi to influx of affected children from neighbouring states.

Blaming the resurfacing of polio cases in the Indian capital to influx of affected children from neighbouring states, Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit on Saturday said that around 2.7 million kids would be administered immunisation drops as part of the Pulse Polio programme.

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"Delhi was on the threshold of eradication of polio but the occurrence of fresh cases, mostly due to migration of polio affected children from neighbouring states, has posed a new challenge," Dikshit said.

Delhi reported six cases of polio in 2006 as against one in 2005.

The chief minister on Saturday launched a fresh polio immunisation drive after administering pulse polio drops to 20 children at her residence.

Around 2.7 million children below five year's of age would be administered polio drops in 7,500 booths in Delhi on Sunday. Nearly, 24,000 health personnel and workers have been deputed for the purpose.

Polio booths have been set up at railway stations, bus terminals, 57 metro stations, airports, important parks, temples and the Pragati Maidan exhibition ground.

International organisations like UNICEF, NGOs like Rotary and Lions Club and 1,250 resident welfare associations are cooperating in the venture.

"The services of local Imams (Muslim religious leaders) have been taken to dispel all misconceptions about the Pulse Polio programme. Their recorded video message is being telecast by cable channels," she said.

Health teams would make door-to-door visits to administer drops to children left out, she said.

"It has become imperative to repeat the dose of polio drops regularly and up to 10 to 12 times after occurrence of fresh cases."