Immunization During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Recommendations From Indian Academy of Pediatrics Advisory Committee on

Srinivas G Kasi1, Shashi Kant Dhir2, Sanjay Verma3

  • 1Kasi Clinic, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India. Correspondence to: Dr Srinivas G Kasi, Convener, ACVIP of IAP, Kasi Clinic, 2nd Cross, 3rd Block, Jayanagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India. sgkasi@gmail.com.

Indian Pediatrics
|December 15, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Routine childhood immunization services were disrupted by the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. The Indian Academy of Pediatrics provides guidance on resuming these essential services for all children, including those with COVID-19.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Public Health
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • The COVID-19 pandemic caused significant disruptions to routine childhood immunization programs globally.
  • Maintaining immunization coverage is critical for preventing outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases.
  • Unique challenges arose in delivering routine pediatric immunizations during the pandemic.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To address common questions and concerns regarding SARS-CoV-2 and routine pediatric immunization.
  • To provide recommendations for the safe resumption of immunization services amidst the pandemic.
  • To offer guidance on managing immunization for children suspected or confirmed to have SARS-CoV-2.

Main Methods:

  • Expert committee review of existing literature and pandemic-related challenges.
  • Development of consensus-based recommendations by the Advisory Committee on Vaccines and Immunization Practices (ACVIP).
  • Focus on practical logistics for safe immunization service delivery.

Main Results:

  • Identification of key issues impacting routine childhood immunizations during the pandemic.
  • Formulation of specific recommendations for SARS-CoV-2 suspect and positive children's immunization.
  • Guidelines for logistical adaptations to ensure safe immunization practices.

Conclusions:

  • Resumption of essential immunization services is a priority during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.
  • ACVIP provides crucial guidance for pediatricians and healthcare providers to navigate immunization challenges.
  • Safe and effective immunization strategies are essential for child health protection.

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