Dilemma’s in immunization
Immunization is a critical part of quality health care and should be accomplished through routine & intensive vaccination programs. When we think of immunization there has been confrontation in my mind and I am sure many of us too have it in us regarding certain aspects of immunization. There are only 43% Indian children who are fully immunized in age group of 12-23 months (NFHS -3).
The schedule for immunization is governed by the thoughts of MOHFW&WHO in one end and IAP at the other end.
| Vaccines | IAP | MOHFW |
|---|---|---|
| Upper limit for BCG | Advocates till age of 7 years or beyond | 12 months |
| DPT | Up to 5 years | Up to 24 months beyond which DT to be administered |
| At 5 years | DPT and OPV Booster | •DT •New recommendations says DPT(Booster 2) •What about OPV(Booster 2)? |
| Vaccine | IAP | BSPM(Bal Swasth Poshan Mah) or Child Health and Nutrition Months |
|---|---|---|
| VitaminA | 18 months and there after every 6 months till 5 years | In the months of June and December only |
E.g. If any child receives Measles and 1st dose of Vit A at 9 months in February 2nd dose along with DPT (Booster 1) will be given in November. But as per BSPM the same dose should be given in December.
When the goal of these bodies is to achieve universal immunization coverage why do they follow different paths and routes? This becomes difficult for the health workers who manage immunization camps which are jointly held by various agencies and organisations. It’s very important to develop a consensus pertaining to immunization in the interest of children’s, health workers and others involved in immunization.
Thirumugam M.
MHA – HE (2011-13)
