Child Health Improves with Decline in Severe Diarrhoea Cases: NFHS-6
India's National Family Health Survey-6 reveals a decrease in severe diarrhoea among children under five. This improvement is attributed to increased vaccination, better access to safe drinking water, and health interventions under the National Health Mission and Jal Jeevan Mission.
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- India
The latest data from the National Family Health Survey-6 (NFHS-6) shows a notable decrease in severe diarrhoea cases among Indian children under five, thanks in part to heightened vaccination rates and improved sanitation efforts. These advancements mark a significant gain in child health across the country.
The report highlights a reduction in severe diarrhoea prevalence from 0.7% to 0.5%, coupled with a substantial rise in the coverage of the Rotavirus vaccine from 36.4% to 85.4% for children aged 12-23 months. Health Ministry officials credit multipronged initiatives under the National Health Mission, including the Universal Immunisation Programme and the STOP Diarrhoea Campaign, for these positive outcomes.
The successful initiatives included health education by frontline workers promoting practices like Oral Rehydration Solution use, zinc supplementation, and improved nutrition. Additionally, the Jal Jeevan Mission played a pivotal role by expanding clean water access to rural communities, with tap connections rising from 17% in 2019 to 81%, benefiting millions of households.
The concerted efforts of these programs are expected to accelerate a 38% reduction in under-five mortality, aligning with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) by 2024.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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