TACKLING INDIA'S IMMUNIZATION CHALLENGE

India's vast geography and large population challenge comprehensive immunization. Despite successes in children's immunization, more work is needed. A report.

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India achieved 93.5 percent full immunization coverage of children for FY2023-24, demonstrating the strength of its vaccination programs, Mission Indradhanush (MI) and Intensified Mission Indradhanush (IMI).

While this is remarkable, the story doesn’t end here. India’s diverse landscape, with its remote rural areas, poses a challenge for immunization. Poor road transport infrastructure further hinders the access to healthcare services. As Dr Vijay Aggarwal, Director Medical Services at Apollo Health and Lifestyle, says, “Reaching to remote areas is quite difficult as India has an extensive geography that varies from place to place.”

Dr Sampath Kumar Shettigar, Consultant Neonatologist at Kinder Women's Hospital & Fertility Centre, Bengaluru, highlights the impact of inadequate healthcare infrastructure, stating, "There may be a shortage of trained healthcare workers and resources."

Poverty, illiteracy, and lack of awareness are major obstacles to immunization in India. Many people living in poverty cannot afford the costs associated with healthcare, including vaccines. Moreover, limited education and awareness about the benefits of immunization can lead to reluctance and hesitancy among parents. Dr Honey Savla, Internal Medicine at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central points to the financial barriers faced by many. “Not all vaccines are covered in government programs and hence people are reluctant to spend their money on these. They don't realize that the cost of vaccines is negligible in comparison with the cost of treatments,” Dr Savla says.

Cultural beliefs and misinformation about vaccines may also hinder immunization efforts in India. Some communities hold traditional beliefs that discourage vaccination, while others may be influenced by false or misleading information circulating in their communities.