The National Immunization Programme (NIP) of Sri Lanka has been implemented to prevent priority vaccine preventable diseases in the country. The NIP has an excellent record, with extremely low incidence of vaccine preventable diseases (VPD) which are covered by the expanded programme on Immunization and high coverage of all vaccines under the NIP.

National Immunization Programme provides its services through a wide network of service delivery points to ensure easy accessibility to the public in all parts of the country. Vast majority of the public get their immunization services free of charge through the public health clinics and state hospitals.

Over 90% of the total cost of the state immunization programme is borne by the Government. Over the past years, a gradual expansion of private sector immunization services has taken place especially in the urban areas. (ST/KH)