Essential Programme on Immunization

Source-This post on Essential Programme on Immunization has been created based on the article “Make EPI an ‘Essential Programme on Immunization” published in “The Hindu” on 30 April 2024.

UPSC Syllabus-GS Paper-2– Issues Relating to Development and Management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health.

Context– The year 2024 marks the 50th anniversary of the launch of the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1974. India launched its EPI (later renamed Universal Immunization Programme, UIP) in 1978 and conducted the last nationwide independent evaluation in 2004. This milestone presents an opportunity to assess progress and envision the future. Essential Programme on Immunization

How much progress has India and the world made in immunization?

1) Globally, vaccines have expanded from 6 diseases in 1974 to 13 universally recommended and 17 context-specific diseases today, with research ongoing for 125 more pathogens.

2) The percentage of children receiving three doses of DPT (a coverage tracer) rose from 5% in low- and middle-income countries in the 1970s to 84% globally in 2022.

3) Smallpox has been eradicated, polio eliminated from all but two countries, and many vaccine-preventable diseases have nearly disappeared.

4) In India, coverage increased yearly, with 76% of children receiving recommended vaccines in 2019-21.

5) Studies show vaccines have saved millions of lives, prevented billions of hospitalizations, and are highly cost-effective, with 7-11 times return on investment.

What are some challenges in immunization?

1) In 2023, UNICEF said childhood immunization coverage dropped for the first time in over ten years. There were 14.3 million children with no doses and 6.2 million partially immunized children worldwide in 2022.

2) Despite increasing coverage in India, persistent inequities exist based on geography, socioeconomic status, and other parameters exists.

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Why is there a need to focus on adult vaccination?

1) Vaccines have always been intended for individuals of all age groups. However, due to limited supply and resources in the past, children were prioritized.

2) Because more children are getting vaccinated, diseases that vaccines can prevent are now affecting more adults and older people. It necessitates a focus on immunization throughout a person’s life.

What are the steps for expanding adult and elderly immunization in India?

1) NTAGI (National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization) should provide recommendations on adult and elderly vaccine use. After NTAGI recommendation, vaccines for all age groups should be made available as free at the government facilities.

2) Proactively address myths and misconceptions about vaccines through professional communication agencies and public education.

3) Medical colleges and research institutions should generate evidence on the burden of diseases in the adult population.

4) India should conduct another independent national-level review of the UIP, engaging key partners and international experts.

What are some recent initiatives undertaken by the government to enhance adult immunization?

1) India has launched a pilot initiative for adult BCG vaccination as part of efforts to ‘end TB.’

2) The COVID-19 vaccination drive has sensitized the public to the need for and benefits of adult vaccination.

Way forward– India should expand the program to focus on zero-dose children, address coverage inequities, and offer vaccines to adults and the elderly. It is time to transform the EPI into an ‘Essential Program on Immunization’ for all age groups.

Question for practice

Highlight the steps that can be taken for expanding adult and elderly immunization in India?