Indian Academy of Paediatrics has updated its guidelines for child immunization. It also urged pediatricians to take a proactive approach in dealing with vaccine-preventable diseases. IAP has also published a first-of-its-kind book with standardized treatment guidelines covering 150 common health conditions that affect children.
As the Academy announced its new rules for child immunization, it noted that “ignorance and negligence” regarding standard vaccinations will result in a negative reaction.
Dr YK Amdekar is a paediatric veteran who published the book. He said that vaccinations are a proven method for controlling, and in some cases, eradicating, disease.
He said that many deaths in India can be attributed to vaccine-preventable diseases and emphasized the importance of a successful vaccination program in India.
He said that India had made significant progress in the prevention of many diseases by using vaccines more widely. He urged paediatricians in India to remain committed in improving the health of children.
Outbreaks of measles in Mumbai and Kerala
India was able manage to eradicate polio in 2014 and had managed measles, rubella and other diseases before the COVID-19 epidemic. The COVID-19 pandemic shook up the regular immunization campaigns as parents feared they might infect their children with the novel coronavirus. Social media was full of false information that discouraged parents from vaccinating their children. This resulted in a dramatic drop in vaccination campaigns against childhood diseases. Rubella and measles, which affect children aged 9-15 months, were particularly affected. Mumbai and Kerala experienced an unexpected increase in measles due to disruption in immunization.
IAP has updated its guidelines on regular vaccination drives in light of the drastic drop in immunization campaigns and the unpredictable outbreaks of rubella and measles in the country.
In a statement, Dr Remesh R, President of Indian Academy Of Paediatrics, explained that the updated guidelines for child vaccination are intended to increase the vaccination campaign and inform IAP members, who are Child Health Specialists, about strengthening the immunization and vaccination system following the COVID-19 Pandemic.
The new guidelines aim to rationalize prescription practices of pediatricians and Dr Kumar stated that “the treatment should be on one platform, and not vary between doctors.”
He said that the book, which contains standardized treatment protocols covering 150 conditions will improve treatment quality and outcomes.
