Neonatal Tetanus among Nomadic Populations in India: An Insight into Socio-political Roadblocks and Pitfalls in Healthcare

Abstract

India achieved elimination status in 2015. Immunization coverage still continues to be low among its nomadic populations and there is a large lacuna in data related to them. Death of a nomadic due to neonatal tetanus  in South India in December 2018, was investigated to examine the five major inter-linked pathways which could lead to the neonatal tetanus case in this community. Social determinants of health forms a major factor influencing health seeking behavior as well as health care access. When seen in the light of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, the lack of basic facilities, social isolation and economic vulnerability makes it impossible to focus on progress to a higher state of well-being. Filling the gaps in the health of indigenous populations will be central to the achievement of global initiatives like Universal Health Coverage and Health for All.