China has made substantial progress in improving child health during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-25), with key mortality indicators now among the best in upper-middle-income countries, the National Health Commission said on Monday.

In 2025, the country's infant mortality rate dropped to 3.8 per 1,000 live births, and the under-5 mortality rate fell to 5.4 per 1,000 live births, according to Fu Wei, director of the commission's Department of Maternal and Child Health.

By the end of 2025, a total of 4,848 secondary and tertiary public general hospitals and 40,000 primary-level medical institutions were able to provide pediatric services, significantly improving access to care for children, she said.

Severe birth defects such as neural tube defects and Down syndrome have been effectively controlled, while mother-to-child transmission of diseases has dropped markedly. Vaccination rates for routine immunizations among eligible children have remained above 90 percent, Fu said.

Looking ahead to the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-30), Fu said authorities will implement a comprehensive strategy focusing on three key areas: ensuring safe birth, strengthening early childhood development and promoting physical and mental health among children and adolescents.

"We will continue to strengthen the emergency rescue network for pregnant women with severe conditions and for newborns, improve the efficiency of referral and treatment, and make every effort to ensure that every child comes into this world healthy and safe."

Meanwhile, primary health institutions will provide free regular physical checkups, developmental assessments, vaccinations and health guidance for every child aged 0 to 6, laying a solid foundation for their healthy growth, she said.

A new action plan involving 12 government departments will target five major health issues — obesity, myopia, mental health problems, scoliosis and dental caries — through integrated prevention and management, Fu said.

Health authorities will work with families, schools and communities to encourage healthy lifestyles, expand screening and follow-up services and integrate health education into students' daily routines, she added.