Vaccines are for life, not just childhood

Metro India News | Hyderabad 

As World Immunization Week begins, health experts are urging renewed focus on vaccination as a life-saving intervention across all age groups. Vaccines prevent an estimated 3.5 to 5 million deaths annually, according to the World Health Organization, protecting against diseases such as measles, tetanus, and influenza that once caused widespread mortality.

India has made notable strides through the Universal Immunization Programme, achieving 93% DTP-1 coverage and reducing zero-dose children to 0.06% in 2024. Initiatives like Mission Indradhanush have significantly improved coverage in underserved districts. However, challenges persist: only 76.4% of children aged 12–23 months are fully immunized, and over 900,000 children remain unvaccinated, particularly in marginalized and hard-to-reach communities.

A more critical gap lies in adult immunization. Studies show influenza vaccine uptake among older adults at just 0.1–0.4%, while coverage for pneumococcal, typhoid, and hepatitis B vaccines remains below 2%. India currently lacks a national adult immunization programme, leaving protection largely dependent on out-of-pocket spending and low public awareness.

Doctors warn that vaccination is essential throughout life, not just in childhood. Newborns, with immature immune systems, are especially vulnerable to infections, making timely vaccination—and strategies like “cocooning,” where caregivers are immunized—crucial for survival.

Public health experts are calling for a national adult vaccination strategy, integration into primary healthcare, and improved awareness to close the gap and sustain India’s immunization success.

— Dr. Babu S Madarkar

Clinical Director Consultant Neonatologist & Paediatrician , KIMS Cuddles, Secunderabad