Programmatic Preparations and challenges for OCV introduction in India.

Cholera mainly affects the marginalized with inequitable access to care, potable water and improved sanitation. An estimated 411 million people in India are at risk from cholera, with 675,188 cases and 20,256 deaths occurring annually. Given the global elimination plan for cholera by 2030, a multi-stakeholder strategy is required. The National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI) Working Group on Cholera met in 2016 to review the evidence for cholera burden in India and successful oral cholera vaccine (OCV) implementation in other countries. Based on NTAGI's recommendations, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare will implement cholera control measures and decide on OCV's addition to India's Universal Immunization Programme (UIP). Key steps for OCV introduction will include choosing the vaccine formulation, developing vaccine delivery strategy, ensuring sufficient resources, engaging OCV manufacturers to ensure a sustainable supply, and developing a post-introduction evaluation strategy.