Child vaccination is a cornerstone of public health and one of the most crucial steps parents can take to protect their children from serious diseases. In India, the government has established a comprehensive immunization program to safeguard children’s health, ensuring a healthier future for generations to come. MEDICRIPT, under the expert care of Dr. Pranshul Pathak, is committed to providing top-tier vaccination services, guiding parents through the essential process of immunization.

Why is Vaccination Important?

Vaccination helps children build immunity against life-threatening diseases, such as polio, measles, and diphtheria, among others. By administering vaccines at specific stages of a child’s life, we ensure that their immune system is well-prepared to fight off infections that can otherwise lead to severe complications or even death. Herd immunity, where a significant portion of the population is immune, also plays a critical role in preventing outbreaks of infectious diseases.

India’s Universal Immunization Program (UIP)

The Indian government, through its Universal Immunization Program (UIP), has taken significant steps to ensure that every child receives life-saving vaccines free of cost. Launched in 1985, the UIP is one of the largest immunization programs in the world, aiming to reduce infant mortality rates and control preventable diseases. The program covers 12 major vaccine-preventable diseases and ensures that children across the country, including those in rural and underserved areas, are vaccinated.

Vaccines Recommended by the Indian Government

The government recommends a series of vaccines that are crucial in the first few years of a child’s life. Here is a breakdown of the key vaccines as per the National Immunization Schedule:

• BCG (Bacillus Calmette–Guérin) – Administered at birth, this vaccine protects against tuberculosis.
• OPV (Oral Polio Vaccine) – Given at birth, followed by doses at 6, 10, and 14 weeks. Polio is a highly contagious viral infection, and this vaccine is vital for eradicating it.
• Hepatitis B – Administered at birth and followed by doses at 6, 10, and 14 weeks. This vaccine protects against the Hepatitis B virus, which can lead to chronic liver disease.
• DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis) – Given at 6, 10, and 14 weeks, this vaccine protects against three serious diseases: diphtheria (a respiratory illness), tetanus (commonly known as lockjaw), and pertussis (whooping cough).

• Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b) – Also given at 6, 10, and 14 weeks, this vaccine prevents meningitis and pneumonia caused by the Hib bacteria.

• Rotavirus Vaccine – Administered at 6, 10, and 14 weeks, this vaccine protects against rotavirus, the leading cause of severe diarrhea in infants and young children.

• Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) – Given at 6, 10, and 14 weeks, PCV helps protect against pneumonia, meningitis, and other infections caused by pneumococcal bacteria.

• IPV (Inactivated Polio Vaccine) – Administered at 6 and 14 weeks alongside OPV for enhanced protection against polio.

• Measles and Rubella (MR) Vaccine – First dose is given at 9-12 months, with a booster at 16-24 months. This vaccine protects against two highly contagious viral diseases: measles and rubella (German measles).

• Japanese Encephalitis (JE) Vaccine – Given at 9 months and 16-24 months in endemic areas, this vaccine protects against Japanese Encephalitis, a mosquito-borne virus.

• Vitamin A Supplementation – Starting at 9 months, Vitamin A supplementation continues every 6 months until the age of 5 years to boost immunity and prevent childhood blindness.

• DTP Booster – Given at 16-24 months and again at 5-6 years to provide continued protection against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis.

• Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine (TCV) – Administered at 9-12 months, this vaccine protects against typhoid fever.

New Additions

The Indian government is continuously expanding the immunization schedule to include more vaccines, such as the HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccine for adolescent girls, which protects against cervical cancer.

Dr. Pranshul Pathak at MEDICRIPT

At MEDICRIPT, Dr. Pranshul Pathak ensures that your child’s immunization schedule is adhered to meticulously. Dr. Pathak’s expertise ensures that all vaccines are administered safely and according to the latest government guidelines, providing not only protection but also peace of mind to parents.

Delaying or missing vaccines can put your child at risk for serious diseases. Dr. Pranshul Pathak and the MEDICRIPT team emphasize the importance of sticking to the recommended vaccination schedule. With reminders, thorough consultations, and an approach that ensures minimal discomfort for the child, MEDICRIPT ensures that your child’s health is in the best hands.

A Healthier Tomorrow Starts Today

Vaccination is a simple yet powerful tool to protect your child’s health and the health of the community. At MEDICRIPT, Dr. Pranshul Pathak and his team are dedicated to making this process as seamless as possible for parents, ensuring that every child gets the best possible start in life.

For more information or to book your child’s vaccination appointment, contact MEDICRIPT today and let us be your partner in raising a healthy child.