This World Immunisation Week (24th-30th April) marks the 50th anniversary of the World Health Organization’s Expanded Program on Immunisation (EPI). This milestone commemorates the legacy of global immunisation efforts and serves as a reminder of the countless lives saved and communities protected through vaccination over the past five decades. The Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP) in India has expanded immunization coverage to over 90% of children, but high drop-out rates after the first birthday and a significant number of children remain partially vaccinated.
Vaccination significantly protects children aged 1-2 from multiple diseases, preventing 37 million childhood deaths in lower and middle-income countries between 2000 and 2019. The Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) recommends seven vaccinations* for children of this age group, first and second dose of varicella and hepatitis A, second dose of meningitis# and MMR, booster doses of PCV and DTP Hib IPV, and annual dose of flu.
Speaking on the importance of immunisation, Dr. Ashim Kumar Ghosh, Practicing Pediatrician and Adolescent Pediatrician, Asansol says, “As a healthcare provider, I urge’ parents to talk to their doctor about the importance of immunisation and discuss any concerns they may have.” Immunization is crucial for children to protect against serious infections and complications, reduce hospitalization burden, and achieve physical and cognitive milestones on time
