PANAJI
In a first-of-its-kind public health initiative, the Goa government on Wednesday unveiled a comprehensive immunisation policy that extends vaccination coverage beyond childhood and seeks to protect vulnerable populations across different stages of life. Health Minister Vishwajit Rane formally launched the Goa Policy for Life-Course Immunization 2026-2036, which outlines a long-term roadmap for age-based and risk-based vaccination in the State. The policy marks a shift from the traditional focus on childhood immunisation by introducing vaccine coverage for adolescents, adults and the elderly, particularly those at a higher risk of severe disease. According to the Directorate of Health Services (DHS), the policy places special emphasis on older adults, people with weakened immune systems, organ transplant recipients and individuals living with chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Health officials said the initiative aims to reduce the burden of vaccine-preventable diseases and strengthen preventive healthcare through timely immunisation across the lifespan. The policy recommends vaccination schedules based on age, health status and medical risk factors and covers protection against a range of diseases, including influenza, pneumococcal disease, hepatitis B and tetanus-diphtheria.
To ensure smooth implementation, the government plans to leverage Goa's existing primary healthcare network and immunisation infrastructure.
Rane said, the strategy seeks to integrate adolescent and adult vaccination into routine health services while retaining the State's current childhood immunisation programme. He said the policy also focuses on identifying high-risk individuals who may benefit from additional vaccine protection. Healthcare workers will be trained to assess vaccine eligibility, counsel patients and improve vaccine uptake among adults and vulnerable groups.
The policy was developed following consultations with public health experts and the Goa Institute of Management and officials said it is forward-looking towards preventing disease.
