Factors contributing to this shortfall include logistical hurdles in reaching remote and underserved areas, vaccine hesitancy among some communities, and disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a concerning revelation, a joint report by the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF has highlighted that approximately 16 lakh children in India missed out on crucial vaccinations (DPT and measles) in the year 2023. This staggering number underscores the challenges faced in ensuring widespread immunization coverage across the country.
The report titled ‘The WHO and UNICEF Estimates of National Immunisation Coverage’ is released annually to assess global immunization coverage.
This year’s report has pointed out that despite India’s concerted efforts in public health, a significant portion of children remained unprotected against preventable diseases. Experts warn that such gaps in vaccination coverage could potentially lead to outbreaks of diseases like measles, polio, and others, which have devastating consequences, especially among vulnerable populations.
The 16 lakh zero-dose children in 2023 represented a 45 per cent increase from the previous year – yet, insufficient and much lower than during the pandemic years.
According to the report, India only fell behind Nigeria, where 21 lakh children missed out on immunisation. India is among 10 countries with the highest number of zero-dose children – others include Nigeria, Congo, Ethiopia, Sudan, Indonesia, Yemen and Pakistan.
Factors contributing to this shortfall include logistical hurdles in reaching remote and underserved areas, vaccine hesitancy among some communities, and disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has strained healthcare systems worldwide, diverting attention and resources away from routine immunization programs.
Bridge the gaps
Dr. Poonam Khetrapal Singh, WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia, emphasized the importance of strengthening health systems to ensure uninterrupted vaccine delivery. She stressed that equitable access to vaccines is crucial to protecting children and communities from preventable diseases.
UNICEF India Representative, Yasmin Ali Haque, echoed these sentiments, urging renewed efforts to bridge gaps in immunization coverage and to address the root causes of under-vaccination. She emphasized the need for community engagement and tailored communication strategies to build trust and confidence in vaccines.
India has made significant strides in recent years in expanding its immunization coverage through initiatives like Mission Indradhanush, aimed at reaching every child with lifesaving vaccines. However, the latest figures indicate that more targeted interventions and sustained efforts are needed to ensure no child is left behind.
Yet, the report says, India is one among 52 countries that does not include HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccination in its immunisation package – this, despite cervical cancer being a significant concern for women.
