Foreword

Immunization has been regarded as the greatest public health success story in the last two decades. Effective control of Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus in older children and Measles have saved annually over 3 million lives worldwide.
Neonatal Tetanus has been virtually eliminated and eradication of Poliomyelitis is targeted for the year 2005.
The Indian Academy of Pediatrics has always been an active partner in the global efforts to control and eradicate vaccine preventable diseases. In addition, the Academy is effectively playing its role in advocacy and recommendations on matters related to immunization practices in India.
The Academy for the first time brought out a Guide book, Teaching Slides, Immunization / Health Record and Immunization Time Table chart in 1997 which helped pediatricians / practitioners to maintain uniform records and follow the scientific principles and practice of immunization. An update version of the above with State of Art messages is now being dedicated to the nation I thank our sponsor and congratulate the office bearers and members of the IAP Committee on Immunization for their laudable efforts in bringing out this updated booklet.