Evidence-based options to improve routine immunization.

Routine immunization is a cornerstone of public health, believed to save an estimated 2-3 million lives annually. Therefore, individual nations and international organizations lay considerable emphasis on robust vaccination programs. India is one of the few countries where universal routine childhood immunization is provided free of charge. Despite this impressive arrangement, immunization coverage through the National program remains unsatisfactorily low. This not only hampers disease control, but consequently diminishes public support for vaccination, and tarnishes the prestige of the program, setting up a vicious cycle. Similarly the occurrence of expected and unexpected adverse events can shake public and professional confidence.