Context:
The National Immunization Schedule for children in India includes recommended vaccines at specific ages to protect against various diseases, aiming to ensure the overall health and well-being of children across the country. However, challenges such as lack of awareness and information, vaccine hesitancy and misinformation, cultural and social beliefs, and low self-efficacy of parents often hinder adherence to the schedule, potentially leading to missed or delayed vaccinations for children. Irregular immunizations can undermine the child’s immune system and compromise their long-term health and well-being.
Purpose:
The ‘Timely Immunization Card’ highlights the importance of timely administration of all recommended vaccines during a child’s early years. The tool visually depicts the immunization timeline to be followed and was designed for consistency with the Government of India’s communication “5 saal 7 baar – choothe na teeka ek bhi baar”, which translates to 5 years, 7 times – not a single vaccine to be missed. It aims to address the misconception that skipping immunization is inconsequential, by highlighting the significance of getting vaccines on time and ensuring all doses are administered. The tool helps parents memorize the seven milestones of the child’s age at which they need to be vaccinated.
Target Groups:
Parents of 0-5-year-old children
Key Messages:
- Timely and complete immunization protects children from life-threatening diseases.
- The Immunization Schedule (7 times in 5 years)
Duration:
2 minutes
Required Resources:
The timely immunization card
How to Use:
While displaying the timely immunization card, use the communicator’s script to sensitize parents.
