ThePrint ThePrintPod: Lancet report highlights gaps in immunisation—no routine vaccine for 14.4 lakh Indian kids in 2023
Jun 25, 2025
A recent Lancet report reveals that India ranks second after Nigeria in the number of zero-dose children, with 14.4 lakh kids missing vital immunizations this year. The discussion highlights the alarming gaps in the country's vaccination program and the urgent need for better delivery systems in under-served areas. Experts emphasize the serious risks these unvaccinated children face from life-threatening diseases and the potential global repercussions of immunization neglect.
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Improve Vaccine Delivery and Uptake
- Focus on improving vaccine delivery and uptake in areas with low coverage.
- Utilize recommended vaccine schedules to protect children from life-threatening diseases.
Global Vaccination Progress and Challenges
- Vaccines targeting many deadly diseases should be free and universally available to children.
- Global vaccine coverage increased significantly by 2023 but stalling and declines have been seen since 2010.
India's Zero-Dose Child Crisis
- India recorded the second highest number of zero-dose children in 2023, with 14.4 lakh unvaccinated kids.
- Most zero-dose children globally live in eight countries mainly in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, indicating regional immunization gaps.