Sunday, August 18, 2019
Mission Indradhanush
Mission Indradhanush is an immunization program launched by the Government of India in December 2014. The mission aims to immunize all children under the age of two years and pregnant women against seven vaccine-preventable diseases. The term "Indradhanush" translates to "rainbow" in English, symbolizing the seven colors of the rainbow, each representing one of the seven diseases targeted by the program.
Key Objectives of Mission Indradhanush:
1. Immunization Coverage: The primary goal of Mission Indradhanush is to increase the immunization coverage rates among children and pregnant women. The program aims to ensure that every child and pregnant woman receives the necessary vaccines to protect against deadly diseases.
2. Vaccine-Preventable Diseases: The mission targets seven vaccine-preventable diseases: diphtheria, whooping cough (Pertussis), tetanus, polio, tuberculosis, measles, and hepatitis B. Vaccines are administered to protect individuals from these diseases.
3. Focused Approach: Mission Indradhanush adopts a focused and systematic approach to reach those areas and communities with low immunization coverage. High-risk populations, urban areas, and hard-to-reach areas are given special attention to ensure comprehensive immunization.
4. Intensive Immunization Sessions: The program conducts regular immunization sessions, intensifying efforts over a specified period. These sessions ensure that all eligible children and pregnant women are vaccinated within a short timeframe.
5. Routine Immunization Strengthening: In addition to the intensified sessions, Mission Indradhanush also focuses on strengthening routine immunization services at health centers. Health workers are trained, and the healthcare infrastructure is improved to support regular vaccination efforts.
6. Community Engagement: The mission emphasizes community engagement and awareness. Health workers and community leaders play a crucial role in educating families about the importance of immunization and addressing any concerns or misconceptions related to vaccines.
7. Monitoring and Evaluation: The program incorporates robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track progress and identify areas that need additional attention. Real-time data is used to assess the effectiveness of immunization efforts.
Mission Indradhanush has significantly contributed to improving immunization rates in India. By reaching out to underserved communities and ensuring that every child and pregnant woman receives essential vaccines, the program plays a vital role in reducing child mortality and enhancing overall public health.