Polio vaccine sends a panic wave among parents

Polio vaccine sends a panic wave among parentsThe rumors of children contracting fever and vomiting after being given polio drops spread wave of panic among the parents who got their children administered with polio drops on Sunday. Thousands of parents and their children protested outside hospitals in Bangalore.

Police officials said that nobody had fallen ill from the vaccine and filed a complaint against a local TV station, saying it helped spread panic following the rumors of children contracting fever and vomiting.

Ashok Kumar, Bangalore's assistant commissioner of police said, "They were all worried and aggressive. It was a difficult situation. They left only after doctors and police officials assured them of their children's safety."

Dr Shivaram, district health officer said that a child was admitted at Kadugodi public health centre after he complained of vomiting and diarrhoea. He was given polio drops in the morning.

Dr Mohan Raj of the national rural health mission said, "We are still investigating the matter, but it is a rumour."