A recent study has unveiled a concerning reality regarding measles vaccination coverage among children in India. The research indicates that nearly 12 percent of eligible children in the country have not received any dose of the recommended double-dose measles vaccine, highlighting a significant gap in immunization efforts.

Conducted by researchers from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and Banaras Hindu University in Varanasi, the study sheds light on previously overlooked aspects of measles vaccination. By analyzing data from over 43,000 children aged 2-3 years collected through the National Family Health Survey 2019-21 (NFHS-5), the researchers delved into zero-dose cases, partially vaccinated individuals, and those who are fully immunized.

The findings reveal that the northeastern states exhibit particularly high rates of zero-dose cases, with Nagaland reporting the highest share at 26 percent. In contrast, Tamil Nadu registers the lowest percentage at 4.6 percent.

This study underscores the critical need to address the gaps in measles vaccination coverage to safeguard the health and well-being of children across India. With measles being a highly contagious disease, comprehensive vaccination strategies are imperative to prevent outbreaks and ensure community immunity.