In 2024, South Asia recorded its highest-ever child immunization coverage, with India and Nepal showing the most notable progress, as per new data released by WHO and UNICEF. The region made strong recoveries post-COVID and advanced in protection against vaccine-preventable diseases like measles, DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis), and HPV (Human Papillomavirus).
Key Findigs
| Indicator | 2023 | 2024 | % Change / Remarks |
| Zero-dose children in India | 1.6 million | 0.9 million | ↓ 43% |
| Zero-dose children in Nepal | 23,000 | 11,000 | ↓ 52% |
| South Asia Zero-dose children (Total) | 2.5 million | 1.8 million | 27% Decrease |
| DTP3 Coverage (South Asia) | 90% | 92% | Global indicator |
| DTP1 Coverage (South Asia) | 93% | 95% | Recovered above pre-COVID levels |
| Measles Vaccine (1st Dose) | 90% | 93% | Progressing |
| Measles Vaccine (2nd Dose) | 87% | 88% | Slight increase |
| Measles Cases | 90,000+ | 55,000 | 39% Decrease |
| HPV Vaccine (Regional avg.) | 2% | 9% | Big increase |
Country-wise HPV Vaccination Progress
- Bangladesh: Vaccinated over 7.1 million girls (Programme started in 2023)
- Nepal: Launched HPV campaign in Feb 2025; over 1.4 million girls vaccinated
- Bhutan: Coverage rose from 91% to 94%
- Maldives: From 60% to 75%
- Sri Lanka: From 31% to 48%
- India & Pakistan: Expected to launch HPV vaccination later in 2025
Factors Behind Success
- Sustained government policies and investment
- Dedicated frontline and community health workers (notably women)
- Support from donors and partners
- Use of digital tools, real-time data systems, and targeted outreach campaigns
Challenges Remaining:
- Over 2.9 million children across South Asia still under- or unvaccinated
- Afghanistan showed a 1% decline in coverage – remains lowest in region
Way Forward: Recommendations by WHO & UNICEF
- Sustain political commitment
- Increase domestic funding for immunization
- Prioritize zero-dose and under-vaccinated children
- Strengthen disease surveillance systems
- Expand HPV vaccine access
Key Facts
- UNICEF: Founded in 1946; UN agency for child rights and welfare.
- UNICEF Headquarters: New York, USA
- UNICEF in India: Supports immunisation, nutrition, and child rights
- WHO: UN health agency responsible for international public health coordination.
- WHO Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland
Related Indian Initiatives:
- Mission Indradhanush
- Intensified Mission Indradhanush (IMI 5.0)
- eVIN (Electronic Vaccine Intelligence Network)