Why in news
Data from the National Family Health Surveys show that the pace of administration of the polio vaccine has slowed down in India.
Coverage of the last dose remains relatively poor.
Coverage levels are poorest in the north-east, where the latest case of vaccine-derived polio was detected in the West Garo Hills of Meghalaya.
Factors Influencing Vaccination Coverage
Socioeconomic Status
Lower coverage is often observed among poorer households.
Wealthier households generally have better vaccination rates.
Higher vaccination coverage is linked to higher education levels of the female head of the household.
Lower education levels correlate with poorer coverage.
Geographical Location
Vaccination coverage varies significantly by region.
North-eastern states and Uttar Pradesh have lower coverage rates, while states like Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal have higher coverage.
Health System Factors
Availability and accessibility of vaccination services impact coverage.
Poor infrastructure or lack of vaccination centers can hinder vaccine delivery.
Inefficient implementation of vaccination programs can lead to lower coverage.
Vaccine-Specific Factors
Low coverage of the last dose of the polio vaccine suggests issues with maintaining high coverage levels, even when initial doses are administered adequately.
Public Perception and Awareness
After being declared polio-free in 2014, there might have been a decrease in urgency and vigilance, contributing to lower vaccination rates.
Lack of awareness about the importance of completing the vaccination series can affect coverage.
Urban vs. Rural Divide
Vaccination coverage may differ between urban and rural areas, with rural areas sometimes facing lower coverage due to fewer health resources.
Program Focus and Priorities
Changes in health priorities or resources can impact vaccination coverage.
For example, if focus shifts to other diseases, polio vaccination rates may suffer.
Government and Policy Interventions
The success of vaccination campaigns depends on effective government policies and timely interventions to address coverage gaps.
Disease Outbreaks
Cases of vaccine-derived poliovirus can impact vaccination priorities and highlight gaps in coverage that need urgent attention.
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