Tamil Nadu Seeks Mumps Vaccine Inclusion

December 24, 2024

Tamil Nadu is currently experiencing a surge in mumps cases, with reports indicating at least 150 cases each month. The state’s Directorate of Public Health has urged the Government of India to include the mumps vaccine in the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP), which follows an increase in cases, prompting concerns about potential outbreaks.

Current Situation of Mumps in Tamil Nadu

Mumps cases have risen sharply, with a notable increase from 61 cases in 2021-22 to 1,091 in 2023-24. Most cases occur in children aged six to nine and those under five years old. Chennai has reported the highest number of cases, while other districts contribute to 3-10% of the total.

Universal Immunisation Programme Overview

The UIP in Tamil Nadu currently administers 11 vaccines to protect against 12 diseases, including tuberculosis and measles. Approximately 10 lakh pregnant women and 9.15 lakh children benefit from this programme annually. The Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine was added in April 2017, but mumps remains unaddressed.

Experts highlight the high infectivity of mumps, which can lead to clusters of cases. Although mumps is often self-limiting in children, complications such as orchitis in adults pose serious health risks, including infertility. The growing evidence of complications necessitates the integration of the mumps vaccine into the UIP.

Recommendations for Policy Change

A recent study advocates for mumps to be classified as a notifiable disease to enhance tracking and control. The authors recommend that the mumps vaccine be included in the UIP following established procedures by the Government of India. This policy change would require resources for vaccine production and distribution.

While the MMR vaccine is accessible in private hospitals, public health experts stress the need for the mumps vaccine in the UIP. This inclusion would be vital to prevent severe complications associated with mumps and to protect vulnerable populations.

GKToday Notes:
Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP): The UIP in Tamil Nadu administers 11 vaccines targeting 12 diseases. It protects around 10 lakh pregnant women and 9.15 lakh children annually, enhancing public health.
Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) Vaccine: The MMR vaccine is crucial for preventing these diseases. It was introduced into the UIP in April 2017, yet mumps remains unaddressed in the programme.
Orchitis: Orchitis is a complication of mumps, particularly in adults. It can lead to infertility, denoting the need for mumps vaccination, especially among older populations at risk.

« Previous Post