In order to improve reporting on vaccination as well as accuracy in field operations, the Sindh Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI) has provided mobile computer devices to its surveillance personnel with the support of the World Health Organisation (WHO). According to an official statement, the distribution of the mobile tablets is aimed at enhancing real-time surveillance data reporting on preventable diseases vaccination activities across the province. During a ceremony, 1,100 tablets were distributed among vaccine preventable diseases (VPD) surveillance focal persons of different health facilities.

Speaking on the occasion, Sindh Minister for Health Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho thanked the WHO for its support in strengthening immunisation initiatives. She emphasized the need to integrate surveillance data with other healthcare systems to ensure comprehensive disease monitoring and response.

Dr. Luo Dapeng, WHO Representative in Pakistan, termed the introduction of mobile touch screen facilities a historic development, saying Sindh has moved to a digital form from manual entry system. “We are committed to integrating surveillance data into existing health systems to enhance efficiency and accuracy.”

Dr. Muhammad Naeem, Programme Director, EPI Sindh, highlighted the latest transition to digital reporting, saying it was a significant step towards a more effective and data-driven immunisation programme.

Dr. Ghulam Hussain Buledi, Provincial Surveillance Coordinator, spoke about the challenges faced by the surveillance team in data entry and archiving, noting the introduction of this new Android-based application will streamline data management and significantly improve field operations.

Dr. Sohail Raza Shaikh said 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.

Rehan Iqbal Baloch, Secretary Sindh Health Department; Dr. Mukhtiar Bhayo, Head of WHO Sub-Office Sindh, and Dr. Arslan Memon, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer also attended the ceremony, in addition to various surveillance officers from different districts.