SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
Institutions: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
South Asia immunised 64 million children in 2024, the highest number ever recorded in the region, according to UNICEF. This marks the second consecutive year of record immunisation, reflecting strong political commitment and collaborative action. The regional coverage rate rose to 86 per cent, narrowing the gap with the global average of 89 per cent.
India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh accounted for the majority of progress, with India immunising more than 30 million children alone. The region also recorded 1.6 million fewer โzero-doseโ childrenโthose who had received no routine vaccinesโcompared to 2022.
Despite these gains, significant challenges remain. Nearly 9.5 million children in South Asia still missed routine vaccinations in 2024, leaving them vulnerable to preventable diseases. Conflict, migration, and fragile health systems continue to disrupt access, while inequities persist between urban and rural populations. UNICEF stressed the importance of sustained investment in routine immunisation, health worker training, and community engagement to protect every child.
Relevant question for policy stakeholders: What targeted policy strategies can India adopt to reach its remaining zero-dose and under-immunised children, particularly in rural and conflict-affected areas, while sustaining record immunisation levels?
Follow the full news here:
https://www.unicef.org/rosa/press-releases/south-asia-immunises-record-high-number-children-2024