Hexavalent Vaccine:
Introducing the hexavalent (six-in-one) vaccine into India’s Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP) could improve the efficiency of the country’s childhood immunisation programme, according to a recent study conducted by the Union Health Ministry.
- Hexavalent Vaccine is a combination vaccine that protects infants against six different diseases with a single injection.
- It combines six different antigens through special manufacturing processes.
- The hexavalent vaccine protects against:
- Diphtheria
- Tetanus
- Pertussis (Whooping Cough)
- Hepatitis B
- Polio
- Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) infections
- Hexavalent vaccine could deliver several benefits, including:
- Fewer injections for infants, making vaccination more convenient for children and caregivers.
- Lower cold-chain storage requirements.
- Reduced use of syringes and other vaccination supplies.
- Less time spent by Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs) administering vaccines and maintaining records.
- Lower workload for cold-chain handlers and vaccine managers.
- Time savings for parents and caregivers during immunisation visits.
