Spreading The Word About Vaccination

The world has benefitted immensely from the use of vaccination. It is estimated that the smallpox vaccine has saved 500 million lives and eradicated the disease entirely. Polio is close to being eradicated, and the recent measles vaccination has saved 20 million lives to date. An estimated 2-3 million lives are saved every year due to vaccination and around $1.5 trillion USD is saved. 

Protecting a newborn baby with vaccinations recommended by the WHO ensures the health and wellbeing of the baby and the society in general. The corporate world can play an important role in ensuring that vaccination and its importance reaches all corners of the world. According to statistical data, only 5% of the children were protected by vaccination against seven deadly diseases in 1974. That figure has now risen to 86%. However, there is a recent downtrend in India, wherein only 44% of the newborn children are vaccinated fully. The fact that diseases such as measles, and influenza still exist makes this a disturbing statistic.

As part of the Corporate Social Responsibility program, several large corporations in India have achieved significant milestones in their chosen problem area. Mission Indradhanush was launched by NRHM (National Rural Health Mission) to ensure the spread of awareness and increasing the vaccination coverage. Companies can lend a helping hand to the government by popularizing this program and setting up systems and processes to help vaccinate people. Donations to such organizations and spreading awareness in the community are also ways to help ensure the health and safety of all involved. This mission is critical in ensuring that the citizens of tomorrow are healthy and taken care of.