UPSC Prelims 2014 Question:

Consider the following diseases:

1. Diphtheria 
2. Chickenpox 
3. Smallpox
   
   

Which of the above diseases has/have been eradicated in India?

Explanation:

• Under Universal Immunization Programme UIP) vaccination is provided to children against life-threatening diseases such as Tuberculosis, Diphtheria, Pertussis, Polio, Tetanus, Hepatitis B, Measles, Rubella, Pneumonia, and Meningitis caused by Haemophilus influenzae B. The Rotavirus vaccination has also been rolled out in the country for the prevention of Rota-viral diarrhea. Thus, Diphtheria has yet not been eradicated from India. So, point 1 is not correct.
  
  
• Chickenpox has caused and still causes multiple hospitalizations each year. With the introduction of the vaccine into the routine in 2007, there has been a decrease in morbidity and hospitalizations. So, point 2 is not correct.
  
  
• Smallpox and Guinea worm are the two diseases declared eradicated from India. No confirmed clinical cases of these diseases have been reported from the country after the declaration of their eradication. So, point 3 is correct.
  
  

Therefore, option (2) is the correct answer.

Subject: Science & Technology | Health and Diseases