Rotavirus vaccine to get introduced in June
Posted on: 01/May/2017 12:42:11 PM
Starting from June 2017, the routine immunization program will include rotavirus vaccine. The vaccine fights severe diarrheal diseases.
With this, Tamil Nadu will become one of the 5 states that have introduced the vaccine in the 2nd phase of the initiative made by the centre. In 7 other states, the routine immunization program has already included this vaccine.
This vaccine is the 9th one to be introduced to the central program for children. Apart from this, dosage for Japanese encephalitis is also given in 13 districts.
What is Rotavirus?
Rotaviruses are the primary causative agent for diarrhoeal disease in children across the world. This virus accounts to over 40 percent of hospitalization. As per WHO reports, about 5.2 lakh children below 5 years of age fall prey to rotavirus infections.
The mortality rate in Tamil Nadu is 24 per 1000 children aging below 5. Out of this, 11 to 13 percent deaths are due to diarrhea, say public health officials.
K Kolandaswamy, the Director of public health said the nature of diarrhoeal cases is bacterial in nature. However, the vaccination program is hopeful to bring forth awareness about maintaining sanitation and personal hygiene and monitor spreading of the disease. Staff members are being trained about how to administer the vaccine.
