Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: ET
Context: A recent study revealed that nearly 12% of eligible children in India missed out on the recommended double-dose measles vaccination, indicating a significant gap in immunization coverage.
Researchers analyzed data from over 43,000 children aged 2-3 years collected through the National Family Health Survey 2019-21. They found that northeastern states had the highest share of zero-dose cases, with Nagaland at 26% and Tamil Nadu at 4.6%. About 30% of eligible children received only one measles-containing vaccine (MCV1), while 60% were fully immunized (MCV2).
About Measles:
It is a highly contagious viral respiratory illness (caused by a single-stranded RNA virus) characterized by symptoms like high fever, cough, coryza, conjunctivitis, and rash. It is caused by the measles virus, which affects humans as its only natural host. The Measles Rubella (MR) vaccine has been included in India’s Universal Immunization Programme since 2017. Rubella virus infection typically leads to a mild fever and rash.
Recently, India has been honoured with the prestigious Measles and Rubella Champion Award by The Measles and Rubella Partnership at the American Red Cross Headquarters in Washington D.C., USA.
