India: Immunization Services during and post COVID-19 Outbreak

India is currently undergoing extended lockdown phase; however as per MHA order dated 15th April 20201,all health services are deemed essential and need to be functional across the country.

 Based on the existing COVID-19 situation, District/Sub-Division/Municipal Corporation/Ward/any other appropriate administrative unit is categorized into Red, Orange zones with active COVID-19 cases and Green zones with no active COVID-19 cases and the list is revised on a weekly basis or earlier.

 Areas where COVID-19 cases are reported and surrounding areas with risk of COVID-19 spread are classified as ‘Containment Zone’ and ‘Buffer Zone’ respectively while area outside the buffer zone is identified as ‘Area beyond Buffer Zone

 The categorization of ‘Containment Zone’ and ‘Buffer Zone’ is a dynamic process updated on a weekly basis or earlier.

MoHFW (vide letter dated 14th April 2020) also issued a ‘Guidance Note’ on continuation of essential services including immunization.