Full formMedical & Health
EPIstands forExpanded Programme on Immunization
Full Form of EPI
What is EPI?
The Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) is a global health initiative launched by the World Health Organization in 1974, adopted by India in 1978 to provide routine vaccination services to all children and pregnant women. In India, EPI is implemented under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, later rebranded as the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) in 1985. It aims to protect against seven vaccine-preventable diseases: tuberculosis (BCG), polio (OPV), diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus (DPT), measles, and hepatitis B. Additionally, the programme includes vaccines for rotavirus, pneumococcal disease, and rubella in recent years. EPI operates through a network of primary health centres, sub-centres, and outreach sessions across rural and urban areas, ensuring free vaccines are available. It plays a critical role in reducing infant and child mortality in India. The programme is exam-relevant for competitive exams like UPSC, NEET-PG, and nursing exams, where questions often cover the vaccination schedule and target diseases. EPI continues to evolve with new vaccines and expanding coverage, contributing significantly to India's public health goals.
EPI का फुल फॉर्म
विस्तारित प्रतिरक्षण कार्यक्रम
Example
As part of the EPI drive, community health workers visited the village to administer the DPT booster shot to all children under five.
EPI — frequently asked questions
What is the full form of EPI?
EPI stands for Expanded Programme on Immunization, a global initiative adopted by India to provide routine vaccinations to children and pregnant women.
What vaccines are covered under EPI in India?
Under EPI (now UIP), vaccines include BCG, OPV, DPT, measles, hepatitis B, rotavirus, pneumococcal conjugate, and rubella, depending on the state's schedule.
How is EPI different from UIP?
EPI was the original name launched in 1978; in 1985 India renamed it the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) with expanded coverage and additional vaccines, though EPI is still used colloquially.