Union government has made an application to the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (Gavi Alliance) to co-finance the introduction of Hib (Haemophilus influenzae) vaccine into its Universal Immunization Programme.

Gavi Alliance which is an organization that aligns public and private resources in a global effort to create greater access to the benefits of immunization has received an application from Union government, stated sources.

The Indian Association of Paediatrics recommended to the Union government that hepatitis B, Hib and MMR vaccines should be included in the national immunization programme with immediate effect.

In this regard, the Union government Ministry of Health and Family Welfare intends to introduce Hib vaccination under the Universal Immunization Programme by April 2009. The National Technical Advisory group on Immunization has also recommended the introduction of the pneumococcal vaccine beginning in 2010 at least in one state.

Haemophilus influenzae type B is a bacterium which causes severe pneumonia, meningitis and other life threatening conditions in children less than five years of age. Although safe and effective, Hib vaccines are under utilized in the developing countries especially in India, informed sources.