Immunisation has consistently been recognised as one of the most significant achievements in the field of public health, second only to advancements in sanitation and water safety. Throughout the years, vaccination efforts have led to the eradication of diseases like smallpox and polio in various regions, including India. These illnesses, once considered severe public health challenges, no longer pose the same threats due to widespread immunisation initiatives. However, despite these successes, many opportunities within India’s vaccination programmes have yet to be fully utilised. This underutilisation carries potential costs that could affect public health in the future.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on immunisation efforts around the world has been profound. The benefits of vaccines, proven through their effectiveness in preventing severe illness and death during the pandemic, have highlighted the importance of immunisation not just for children but for adults as well. The pandemic underscored the need for widespread vaccination across all age groups and emphasised the importance of raising awareness among the general public and administrators regarding adult vaccination.

Unfortunately, the lockdowns and social distancing measures that were implemented to curb the spread of COVID-19 also led to significant disruptions in childhood vaccination programmes globally. According to data from UNICEF published in 2023, a concerning trend was observed: 73 countries reported a substantial decline, exceeding 5%, in childhood vaccination rates post-pandemic. Out of these countries, only 15 were able to return to pre-pandemic immunisation levels. Meanwhile, 24 nations have been observed to be in the recovery phase, gradually restoring their vaccination programmes, whereas 34 countries have either seen no improvements or experienced further deterioration in vaccination coverage.

India, however, has emerged as a remarkable exception in this global scenario. It has been noted as one of the success stories, with substantial recovery observed in the vaccination sector. One of the significant achievements that contributed to India’s recovery was the successful administration of the third dose of the DPT (Diphtheria, Pertussis, and Tetanus) vaccine. This achievement is seen as a testament to the resilience of India’s healthcare system and the commitment of its healthcare workers to ensuring that immunisation coverage is maintained despite the challenges posed by the pandemic.

Efforts to resume and accelerate vaccination campaigns in India have included various strategies, such as extensive outreach, awareness programmes, and door-to-door campaigns. These initiatives have played a crucial role in addressing the gaps caused by the pandemic. The government’s proactive approach, along with the dedication of healthcare professionals, has been instrumental in bringing childhood immunisation rates back on track. However, there remains a need to further strengthen vaccination initiatives to ensure that no child is left behind, especially in remote and underserved areas.

The need for increased focus on adult immunisation has also been underscored by the experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic. While childhood vaccination remains a priority, the concept of vaccination throughout the life course is gaining importance. Health experts are advocating for more comprehensive immunisation policies that include vaccines for adults, especially those at higher risk due to underlying health conditions or age.

As the world continues to recover from the disruptions caused by COVID-19, there is a renewed emphasis on reinforcing immunisation systems. The lessons learned during the pandemic are expected to drive improvements in global vaccination strategies, ensuring that future generations are better protected against preventable diseases. The example set by India’s recovery in immunisation efforts can serve as a model for other nations striving to overcome the setbacks caused by the pandemic.

The future of public health will rely heavily on robust immunisation programs that can withstand unexpected challenges. With global collaboration and a commitment to innovation in vaccine delivery, the gaps in vaccination coverage can be addressed, thus ensuring a healthier and more resilient global population.

Reference:

1. https://www.unicef.org/india/press-releases/childhood-immunization-begins-recovery-after-covid-19-backslide

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Ankur Deka/MSM)