Childhood Vaccination Coverage in India and Its Impact: Evidence From NFHS-5 Factsheet

Abstract

Background: In developing countries various childhood diseases lead the morbidity, mortality and irreversible losses which can be prevented by proper vaccination. This study was conducted to analyse the changing trends of childhood vaccination in India and its impact on childhood diseases and mortality, the trends in coverage of each vaccine along with identification of geographical areas of concern. Materials and methods: NFHS data published by Government of India was analyzed to see the trends in vaccination coverage, female literacy, childhood diseases and under-five mortality, along with online database search for relevant literature. Results: Total vaccination coverage in India has reached to 76.4% as per NFHS-5 data. Orissa stands at the top with 90.5% coverage while Nagaland at the bottom with 57.9% coverage. Prevalence of childhood diseases and under-five mortality has reduced overtime accountable to increase in vaccination coverage as one of the major factors for same. Conclusion: Despite improvement in total vaccination coverage, the goal of Intensified Mission Indra Dhanush of 90% coverage still remains unachieved. There is reduction in childhood disease and mortality rate, but the pandemic has adversely affected these advances. Therefore, immediate steps should be taken to gain the lost ground.