Vaccination Coverage and Inequalities in India (2011-2024)

India's Vaccination Coverage and Inequalities

Abstract

Vaccination coverage in India has improved over the years, but significant inequalities persist across socioeconomic groups and geographic regions. According to the latest National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) data from 2019-2021, the full immunization coverage among children aged 12-23 months was 76% at the national level, an increase from 62% in NFHS-4 (2015-16). However, there are stark disparities across states, with some states like Assam (59%) and Uttar Pradesh (63%) lagging far behind others like Andhra Pradesh (90%) and Lakshadweep (97%). Socioeconomic factors such as household wealth, mother's education, and rural/urban residence play a significant role in determining vaccination coverage. Children from the poorest households (65%) and those whose mothers have no schooling (65%) have much lower full immunization rates compared to the richest households (84%) and those with mothers having 12 or more years of schooling (88%). Studies have consistently shown a disproportionate concentration of unvaccinated or partially vaccinated children among lower socioeconomic strata, with factors like poverty, illiteracy, and lack of access to healthcare contributing to these inequalities. Addressing these inequalities requires targeted interventions focusing on improving healthcare access and educational opportunities for disadvantaged populations.