Tamil Nadu Seeks Inclusion of Mumps Vaccine in Universal Immunization Program

## Should Mumps ⁤Vaccine be Included in India’s Universal Immunization Program? Tamil Nadu is calling⁤ for the inclusion of the mumps vaccine in India’s Universal Immunization Program (UIP). The state,‍ which sees 150 to 200 mumps cases ⁤every month,⁤ made this request to the⁢ Government of India (GoI) earlier this year.

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While the number of cases might seem​ relatively⁣ low ‌considering Tamil ​Nadu’s large population,health officials are concerned about the⁢ disease’s high infectivity. Dr. T.S. Selvavinayagam, ‍Director of Public Health in Tamil Nadu, highlighted this concern: “In view ⁢of high infectivity, it may become a cluster.”⁣ he also‍ pointed out that nearly 40% of mumps cases‍ occur in children aged six to nine, followed by those⁢ under⁢ five years old, with over half the cases​ affecting ​women. Currently, the UIP in tamil​ Nadu covers 12⁢ vaccine-preventable ⁢diseases with 11‍ vaccines administered to ⁢children and pregnant women.⁢ Measles-Rubella (MR) ⁤vaccine was added to the⁣ program in 2017.⁣ the presence of the mumps component in the MMR vaccine, readily available in private hospitals,‍ further strengthens the argument for​ its inclusion in the UIP. Dr.⁣ Selvavinayagam emphasized that even though mumps is frequently enough ​self-limiting in children, adults are at a higher risk of complications like orchitis,⁣ which can lead ‌to infertility. “In view of the growing evidence of complications due to​ shift in the age ⁤group, ⁤it is advisable⁤ to include mumps in the UIP,”⁣ he ‌stated. He⁢ acknowledged that this decision would require careful consideration at the national level, involving pan-India implementation, significant expenditure, and increased ⁢vaccine production capacity. ### Concerns​ and the Path Forward Medical professionals stressed the importance of mumps vaccination, highlighting the potential for ​complications ⁢like orchitis and ‍encephalitis. ⁣While the MMR vaccine is ​accessible in⁢ private hospitals,‍ adding it to the UIP could ensure wider coverage and protection against mumps, especially for vulnerable populations. Published – December ⁢19, 2024 08:19 ‍pm⁢ IST
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## Should the Mumps vaccine Be Included in India’s Universal Immunization program?



**[Host]** Welcome back to Archyde Insight. Today, we’re delving into a pressing public health issue: the call for the inclusion of the mumps vaccine in India’s Universal Immunization Program. Joining us to unpack this complex debate is Dr. [Alex Reed Name], a leading expert in infectious diseases and vaccine growth. Dr. [Alex Reed Name], thank you for being with us.



**[Alex Reed]** It’s a pleasure to be here.



**[Host]** Tamil Nadu has recently advocated for including the mumps vaccine in the program. Can you shed light on the reasons behind this call?



**[Alex Reed]** Absolutely. Mumps, while frequently enough considered a mild childhood illness, can lead to serious complications such as meningitis, encephalitis, and even deafness. [ [1](https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3271/6/3/62) ] The vaccine is highly effective, with two doses offering 88% protection against the disease, making it a valuable tool in preventing these potentially debilitating consequences.



**[Host]**



That’s certainly compelling.However, some argue that incorporating the mumps vaccine into the program could strain India’s already stretched public health resources. How do you respond to this concern?



**[Alex Reed]** That’s a valid point. though, it’s significant to remember that preventing disease is ultimately more cost-effective than treating its complications. By including the mumps vaccine in the Universal Immunization Program,we can save on healthcare costs associated with treating mumps-related complications down the line. This investment in preventative healthcare ultimately benefits both individuals and the nation as a whole.



**[Host]**



What about potential side effects? Are there concerns regarding the safety of the mumps vaccine?



**[Alex Reed]** Just like any vaccine,the mumps vaccine can have mild side effects such as fever or pain at the injection site.However, serious side effects are extremely rare. The scientific evidence overwhelmingly supports the safety and efficacy of the mumps vaccine.



**[Host]**



Thank you for clarifying that. Do you beleive that the benefits of including the mumps vaccine in India’s



Universal Immunization Program outweigh the potential challenges?



**[Alex Reed]**



I strongly believe that they do. The potential to prevent a serious, preventable disease and its associated complications, coupled with the long-term cost savings and public health benefits, makes a compelling case for inclusion.





**[Host]**



Dr. [Alex Reed Name], thank you for sharing your expertise and insights on this important issue.



**[Alex Reed]**



My pleasure.



**[Host]**



And thank you to our viewers for tuning in. We hope this discussion has shed some light on the complex debate surrounding the inclusion of the mumps vaccine in India’s Universal Immunization Program.