What significant achievement did the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) reach on July 12, 1976?

The selected answer highlights a pivotal milestone in public health represented by the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI). Specifically, on July 12, 1976, the achievement of establishing compulsory immunization for children below 7 years old was crucial in bolstering immunization coverage and ensuring the health of younger populations. This mandatory aspect aimed to increase vaccination rates, thereby reducing the incidence of vaccine-preventable diseases among children, who are particularly vulnerable to infections.

The addition of compulsory immunization reflected a broader commitment to public health policy and the recognition of immunization as a fundamental right for children. By mandating vaccinations within a certain age range, health authorities could mitigate the spread of infectious diseases, protect not only the vaccinated individuals but also contribute to community immunity, which is vital for safeguarding those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons.

While the other options mention important aspects related to immunization and health initiatives, they do not capture the specific and significant achievement of making vaccinations compulsory, which directly tackled public health challenges at the time.