Immunization and vaccination of children during current COVID-19 pandemic: Impact and recommendation guidelines for India

Considering protection from vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs) as a child's basic right and also need of society, vaccination service resumption amid this Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is a priority. Global Impact on Childhood Vaccination Services One of the less-publicized consequences of the pandemic is the impact on the delivery of important health services of globally adopted childhood vaccination services.[1] Lessons from the previous disease outbreaks well established about the health system crippling. Particular attention is required for the continuation and delivery of this essential health care for a specific population group, with ensured safety of health care workers.[2] United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), Chief Dr. Robin Nandy highlighted fact that COVID-19 is already stretching the capacity of the healthcare system everywhere and it may become more exaggerated when it hit low-income countries and with disruptions in immunization services, the ultimate outcomes of millions of children may hang in balance.[3] WHO has released various guidelines [Table 1],[4] and operational guidance documents for maintaining essential health services.[5]Table 1: Recommended guidelines by WHO in European regions for immunization programmes during the COVID-19 pandemic[4]Indian Scenario India was progressing well towards the sustainable development goal of bringing Infant mortality rate before this. But now, missing out essential vaccines could lead to resurgence of potentially fatal childhood diseases. Ultimately, it will severely threaten and reverse the gains, India has made by immunizing children against VPDs. Initially, whole country but currently only some states have halted immunization activities because of this pandemic. Especially in rural areas, most children receive essential vaccines through government outreach services using health care workers as Ashas, who are now engaged in Covid-19 surveillance with contact tracing. Urban areas are also having severely hampered health care delivery services. Ministry of Health and family welfare (MoHFW) mentioned that all health services are deemed essential and need to be functional soon across the country. On the basis of WHO guidelines, MoHFW issued a 'Guidance Note' on April 14, 2020 on continuation of essential services. Key principles and guidelines which have to be followed are summarized in Table 2.[6]Table 2: Recommended key principles and guidelines by MoHFW, India for immunization services in children (including pregnant women) during the COVID-19 pandemic[6]Financial support and sponsorship Nil. Conflicts of interest There are no conflicts of interest.

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