Sharp Rise in Zero-Dose Children in India, Says WHO-Unicef Report
WHO-Unicef Report Highlights Alarming Rise in Zero-Dose Children in India from 11 Lakh in 2022 to 16 Lakh in 2023
Significant Increase in Unvaccinated Children
Sharp Rise in Zero-Dose Children in India, Says WHO-Unicef Report
A concerning trend has emerged in India regarding childhood immunization, as highlighted by a recent WHO-Unicef report. The report reveals that in 2023, at least 16 lakh (1.6 million) children in India did not receive even a single dose of the DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis) vaccine or the measles vaccine. This marks a significant increase from 2022, where the number of zero-dose children stood at 11 lakh (1.1 million).
This sharp rise in zero-dose children indicates a troubling gap in the immunization coverage in the country. The DTP and measles vaccines are critical in protecting children against potentially life-threatening diseases. The failure to administer these vaccines leaves millions of children vulnerable to infections that are otherwise preventable.
Experts attribute this alarming increase to several factors, including disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, logistical challenges, vaccine hesitancy, and issues within the healthcare delivery system. The pandemic, in particular, has strained healthcare resources and diverted attention from routine immunization programs, leading to missed vaccinations.
Dr. Rajesh Kumar, a pediatrician and public health expert, emphasized the importance of addressing this issue urgently. “The rise in zero-dose children is a public health crisis that needs immediate attention. Immunization is one of the most effective ways to prevent disease outbreaks. Ensuring that every child receives these essential vaccines must be a top priority.”
The WHO-Unicef report calls for enhanced efforts to reach every child with life-saving vaccines. It recommends strengthening immunization programs, improving vaccine delivery systems, and addressing vaccine hesitancy through community engagement and education.
The Government of India has acknowledged the report and is reportedly working on strategies to bridge the immunization gap. Health officials are focusing on ramping up vaccination drives, especially in rural and hard-to-reach areas, to ensure that no child is left without protection.
This increase in zero-dose children serves as a wake-up call for policymakers, healthcare providers, and communities to come together and reaffirm their commitment to safeguarding children’s health through timely and complete immunization.
