Immunisation status of children in BIMARU states

P Singh1, R J Yadav

  • 1Institute for Research in Medical Statistics, ICMR, New Delhi, India.

Insights

Immunisation coverage for children in Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and UP is significantly lower than the national average, with maternal literacy being a key factor. Targeted interventions in rural and underserved areas are crucial for improving vaccination rates.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Pediatrics
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Childhood immunisation is critical for disease prevention.
  • The Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP) aims to provide comprehensive vaccination coverage.
  • Regional disparities in immunisation coverage necessitate targeted assessments.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the immunisation status of children in select Indian states (Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, UP).
  • To identify factors influencing immunisation coverage, including maternal literacy and village characteristics.
  • To provide data for improving the Universal Immunisation Programme.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized a modified WHO 30 cluster survey methodology.
  • Included data collection on child's sex, parental literacy, and village accessibility.
  • Surveyed 30 districts, 900 villages, and 6300 children across the four states.

Main Results:

  • Overall immunisation coverage with BCG, DPT, OPV, and Measles vaccines was 48% in the studied states, compared to 63% nationally.
  • These states accounted for approximately 70% of non-immunised children nationwide.
  • Lower coverage rates were observed in children of illiterate mothers and in small, inaccessible villages.

Conclusions:

  • Maternal literacy is a critical determinant for the success of the Universal Immunisation Programme.
  • Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) strategies should target rural mothers.
  • Special focus and targeted interventions are required for underserved areas, including tribal and remote villages, to improve immunisation coverage and reduce drop-out rates.

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