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Mwangilwa K, Chileshe C, Simwanza J, Chipoya M, Simwaba D, Kapata N, Mazaba ML, Mbewe N, Muzala K, Sinyange N, Fwemba I, Chilengi R. Evaluating the impact of COVID-19 on routine childhood immunizations coverage in Zambia. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0003407. [PMID: 39078841 PMCID: PMC11288450 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0003407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
There are growing concerns about the comeback of vaccine-preventable diseases. Epidemics exert shocks which affect other health performance indicators such as routine immunizations. Early model forecasts indicate decreased use of immunization services, which puts children at greater risk. Concerns about an increase in morbidity and mortality for illnesses other than COVID-19, particularly in children missing routine vaccinations, are of public health interest. In this study, we evaluate COVID-19 effects on the uptake of routine immunization in Zambia.This was an interrupted time series study. National data on routine immunization coverage between January 2017 and December 2022 were analyzed. Interrupted time series analysis was performed to quantify changes in immunization utilization. To determine if changes in the underlying patterns of utilization of immunization service were correlated with the commencement of COVID-19, seasonally adjusted segmented Poisson regression model was utilised.Utilization of health services was similar with historical levels prior to the first case of COVID-19. There was a significant drop in immunization coverage for measles dose two (RR, 0.59; 95% CI: 0.43-0.80). A decreased slope was observed in immunization coverage of Rotavirus dose one (RR, 0.97; 95% CI: 0.96-0.98) and Rotavirus dose two (RR, 0.97; 95% CI: 0.96-0.98). A growing slope was observed for Oral Poliovirus two (RR, 1.007; 95% CI: 1.004-1.011) and Oral Poliovirus three (RR, 1.007; 95% CI: 1.002-1011). We also observed a growing slope in BCG Bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG) (RR, 1.001; 95% CI: 1.000-1011) and Pentavalent one (RR, 1.00; 95% CI: 1.001-1008) and three (RR, 1.004; 95% CI: 1.001-1008).The COVID-19 pandemic has had a number of unintended consequences that have affected the use of immunization services. Ensuring continuity in the provision of health services, especially childhood immunization, during pandemics or epidemics is crucial. Therefore, Investing in robust healthcare infrastructure to withstand surges, training and retaining a skilled workforce capable of handling emergencies and routine services simultaneously is very cardinal to avoid vaccine-preventable diseases, causing long-term health effects especially child mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - John Simwanza
- Zambia National Public Health Institute, Kabulonga, Lusaka
| | - Musole Chipoya
- Zambia National Public Health Institute, Kabulonga, Lusaka
| | - Davie Simwaba
- Zambia National Public Health Institute, Kabulonga, Lusaka
| | - Nathan Kapata
- Zambia National Public Health Institute, Kabulonga, Lusaka
| | | | - Nyuma Mbewe
- Zambia National Public Health Institute, Kabulonga, Lusaka
| | - Kapina Muzala
- Zambia National Public Health Institute, Kabulonga, Lusaka
| | | | - Isaac Fwemba
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Roma Chilengi
- Zambia National Public Health Institute, Kabulonga, Lusaka
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Song MY, Blake-Hepburn D, Karbasi A, Fadel SA, Allin S, Ataullahjan A, Ruggiero ED. Public health partnerships with faith-based organizations to support vaccination uptake among minoritized communities: A scoping review. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0002765. [PMID: 38837963 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Faith-based vaccine initiatives are of growing interest to public health agencies who are looking to increase vaccine confidence among ethnoracially minoritized populations. Despite evidence that support faith-based organizations' (FBOs) partnerships with public health agencies (PHAs) to increase vaccine confidence, reviews on the scope and efforts to ensure equitable vaccination delivery for ethnoracially minoritized populations are scarce. We aimed to understand how public health agencies collaborate with FBOs or faith communities to improve vaccine confidence among minoritized communities in high-, low- and middle- income countries. We conducted a scoping review by searching OVID MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), SCOPUS, and PROQUEST from 2011 to 2023. We included case studies, news reports, observational studies, experimental, and quasi-experimental studies and multimedia content that describes PHA-FBO partnerships that created vaccine initiatives for marginalized and minoritized communities. The data was extracted, summarized, and results were described narratively. We included 167 initiatives reported in 160 publications; 83.8% of the included articles were published between 2019 to 2023. The interventions carried out by PHA-FBO partnerships attempted to increase vaccine uptake using any or all the following methods. First, the initiatives provided digital and in-person platforms for interfaith learning and established training programs to empower faith leaders to become vaccine ambassadors. Second, the initiatives designed and disseminated education and awareness materials that aimed to be sensitive to religious and gender norms. Third, PHA-FBO partnered to apply equity and faith-based frameworks and provided wrap-around support to enable equitable vaccine access. Majority of the initiatives reported that PHA-FBO partnerships improved vaccine confidence and uptake (71.3%). About 22.2% of the initiatives reported quantitative outcomes post-intervention. PHA-FBO initiatives over the past decade increased vaccine uptake and acceptance among diverse ethnoracially minoritized populations. Reporting of faith-based initiatives are subject to publication bias and can be strengthened by examining more evaluation studies and establishment of key outcome indicators to critically appraise intervention outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melodie Yunju Song
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Anna Karbasi
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Shaza A Fadel
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Clinical Public Health Division, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Sara Allin
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anushka Ataullahjan
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- School of Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Erica Di Ruggiero
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Social and Behavioural Health Sciences Division, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Akseer N, Phillips DE. Drivers of success in global health outcomes: A content analysis of Exemplar studies. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0003000. [PMID: 38722816 PMCID: PMC11081220 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0003000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Applying a positive outlier lens is one effective approach for generating evidence to inform global health policy, program, and funding decisions. Exemplars in Global Health (EGH) is a program that studies positive outlier countries that have made extraordinary progress in health outcomes (despite limited resources) and disseminates their successes through multiple types of outputs. To date, EGH has studied, or is studying, 14 global health topics in 28 countries. This paper aims to identify findings, summarized as themes and sub-themes, that appear among all completed EGH studies. We developed a conceptual framework and used a content analysis approach to identify the top thematic areas that appear as drivers for programmatic success across EGH studies that were completed between June 2020-May 2023. The EGH studies (N = 31) spanned six topics including under-five child mortality (n = 6), childhood stunting (n = 5), community health workers (CHW) (n = 4), vaccine delivery (n = 3), COVID-19 response (n = 6), and newborn and maternal mortality reduction (n = 7) across 19 countries in sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, South and Central Asia, and the Caribbean regions. Top drivers of success were defined as those critical or catalytic in achieving the intended outcome. Eight key drivers were identified: (1) efficient data collection and use for decision-making, (2) strong political commitment and health leadership, (3) effective stakeholder coordination, (4) a local, connected, and capacitated workforce, (5) intentional women's empowerment and engagement, (6) effective adoption and implementation of national policies, (7) effective and sustainable financing, and (8) equitable, efficient outreach and targeting. These cross-cutting drivers span a broad range of development outcomes, sectors, and populations, and indicate a need to effectively integrate people, systems, and sectors to improve global health outcomes. Findings from this study aim to support peer learning among countries and support evidence-based decision-making for funders, policymakers, and other key stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Akseer
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Exemplars in Global Health, Gates Ventures, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - David E. Phillips
- Exemplars in Global Health, Gates Ventures, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
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Ogutu EA, Ellis AS, Hester KA, Rodriguez K, Sakas Z, Jaishwal C, Yang C, Dixit S, Bose AS, Sarr M, Kilembe W, Bednarczyk R, Freeman MC. Success in vaccination programming through community health workers: a qualitative analysis of interviews and focus group discussions from Nepal, Senegal and Zambia. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e079358. [PMID: 38569679 PMCID: PMC11146414 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-079358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Community health workers are essential to front-line health outreach throughout low-income and middle-income countries, including programming for early childhood immunisation. Understanding how community health workers are engaged for successful early childhood vaccination among countries who showed success in immunisation coverage would support evidence-based policy guidance across contexts. DESIGN We employed a multiple case study design using qualitative research methods. SETTING We conducted research in Nepal, Senegal and Zambia. PARTICIPANTS We conducted 207 interviews and 71 focus group discussions with 678 participants at the national, regional, district, health facility and community levels of the health systems of Nepal, Senegal and Zambia, from October 2019 to April 2021. We used thematic analysis to investigate contributing factors of community health worker programming that supported early childhood immunisation within each country and across contexts. RESULTS Implementation of vaccination programming relied principally on the (1) organisation, (2) motivation and (3) trust of community health workers. Organisation was accomplished by expanding cadres of community health workers to carry out their roles and responsibilities related to vaccination. Motivation was supported by intrinsic and extrinsic incentives. Trust was expressed by communities due to community health worker respect and value placed on their work. CONCLUSION Improvements in immunisation coverage was facilitated by community health worker organisation, motivation and trust. With the continued projection of health worker shortages, especially in low-income countries, community health workers bridged the equity gap in access to vaccination services by enabling wider reach to underserved populations. Although improvements in vaccination programming were seen in all three countries-including government commitment to addressing human resource deficits, training and remuneration; workload, inconsistency in compensation, training duration and scope, and supervision remain major challenges to immunisation programming. Health decision-makers should consider organisation, motivation and trust of community health workers to improve the implementation of immunisation programming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A Ogutu
- Department of Environmental Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Anna S Ellis
- Department of Environmental Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Kyra A Hester
- Department of Environmental Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Katie Rodriguez
- Department of Environmental Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Zoe Sakas
- Department of Environmental Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Chandni Jaishwal
- Department of Environmental Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Chenmua Yang
- Department of Environmental Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | | | - Moussa Sarr
- Institut de Recherche en Santé, de Surveillance Epidemiologique et de Formations, Dakar, Senegal
| | | | - Robert Bednarczyk
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Matthew C Freeman
- Department of Environmental Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Dadari I, Sharkey A, Hoare I, Izurieta R. Analysis of the impact of COVID-19 pandemic and response on routine childhood vaccination coverage and equity in Northern Nigeria: a mixed methods study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e076154. [PMID: 37852768 PMCID: PMC10603460 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-076154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Based on 2021 data, Nigeria had the second largest number of zero-dose children globally estimated at over 2.25 million, concentrated in the northern part of the country due to factors some of which are sociocultural. This study analysed the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and response on childhood vaccination in Northern Nigeria. METHODS Using a mixed methods sequential study design in the most populous northern states of Kaduna and Kano, quantitative routine immunisation data for the period 2018-2021 and qualitative data collected through 16 focus group discussions and 40 key informant interviews were used. An adaptation of the socioecological model was used as a conceptual framework. Mean vaccination coverages and test of statistical difference in childhood vaccination data were computed. Qualitative data were coded and analysed thematically. RESULTS Mean Penta 1 coverage declined in Kaduna from 69.88% (SD=21.02) in 2018 to 59.54% (SD=19.14%) by 2021, contrasting with Kano where mean Penta 1 coverage increased from 51.87% (SD=12.61) to 56.32% (SD=17.62%) over the same period. Outreaches and vaccination in urban areas declined for Kaduna state by 10% over the pandemic period in contrast to Kano state where it showed a marginal increase. The two states combined had an estimated 25% of the country's zero-dose burden in 2021. Lockdowns, lack of transport and no outreaches which varied across the states were some of the factors mentioned by participants to have negatively impacted childhood vaccination. Special vaccination outreaches were among the recommendations for ensuring continued vaccination through a future pandemic. CONCLUSION While further interrogating the accuracy of denominator estimates for the urban population, incorporating findings into pandemic preparedness and response will ensure uninterrupted childhood vaccination during emergencies. Addressing the identified issues will be critical to achieving and sustaining universal childhood vaccination in Nigeria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim Dadari
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
- PG-Health-Immunization, United Nations Children's Fund, New York, New York, USA
| | - Alyssa Sharkey
- School of Public and International Affairs, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, USA
| | - Ismael Hoare
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Ricardo Izurieta
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
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Smalley HK, Castillo-Zunino F, Keskinocak P, Nazzal D, Sakas ZM, Sarr M, Freeman MC. Factors associated with vaccine coverage improvements in Senegal between 2005 and 2019: a quantitative retrospective analysis. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e074388. [PMID: 37793917 PMCID: PMC10551957 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-074388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Senegal has demonstrated catalytic improvements in national coverage rates for early childhood vaccination, despite lower development assistance for childhood vaccines in Senegal compared with other low-income and lower-middle income countries. Understanding factors associated with historical changes in childhood vaccine coverage in Senegal, as well as heterogeneities across its 14 regions, can highlight effective practices that might be adapted to improve vaccine coverage elsewhere. DESIGN Childhood vaccination coverage rates, demographic information and health system characteristics were identified from Senegal's Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) and Senegal national reports for years 2005-2019. Multivariate logistic and linear regression analyses were performed to determine statistical associations of demographic and health system characteristics with respect to childhood vaccination coverage rates. SETTING The 14 administrative regions of Senegal were chosen for analysis. PARTICIPANTS DHS women's survey respondents with living children aged 12-23 months for survey years 2005-2019. OUTCOME MEASURES Immunisation with the third dose of the diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine (DTP3), widely used as a proxy for estimating immunisation coverage levels and the retention of children in the vaccine programme. RESULTS Factors associated with childhood vaccination coverage include urban residence (β=0.61, p=0.0157), female literacy (β=1.11, p=0.0007), skilled prenatal care (β=1.80, p<0.0001) and self-reported ease of access to care when sick, considering travel distance to a healthcare facility (β=-0.70, p=0.0009) and concerns over travelling alone (β=-1.08, p<0.0001). Higher coverage with less variability over time was reported in urban areas near the capital and the coast (p=0.076), with increased coverage in recent years in more rural and landlocked areas. CONCLUSIONS Childhood vaccination was more likely among children whose mothers had higher literacy, received skilled prenatal care and had perceived ease of access to care when sick. Overall, vaccination coverage is high in Senegal and disparities in coverage between regions have decreased significantly in recent years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah K Smalley
- H. Milton Stewart School of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Francisco Castillo-Zunino
- H. Milton Stewart School of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Pinar Keskinocak
- H. Milton Stewart School of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Center for Health and Humanitarian Systems, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Dima Nazzal
- H. Milton Stewart School of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Zoë M Sakas
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Moussa Sarr
- Institut de Recherche en Santé de Surveillance Epidemiologique et de Formation, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Matthew C Freeman
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Lubeya MK, Chibwesha CJ, Mwanahamuntu M, Mukosha M, Frank S, Kawonga M. "When you get the HPV vaccine, it will prevent cervical cancer; it will act as a shield": adolescent girls' knowledge and perceptions regarding the human papillomavirus vaccine in Zambia. FRONTIERS IN HEALTH SERVICES 2023; 3:1208458. [PMID: 37780403 PMCID: PMC10534003 DOI: 10.3389/frhs.2023.1208458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Introduction The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination is an important preventive measure for HPV-related conditions such as cervical cancer. In 2019, Zambia introduced a free national HPV vaccination program for 14-year-old girls. However, the adolescents' knowledge and perceptions regarding the HPV vaccine are not well understood. Therefore, this study aimed to understand adolescent girls' knowledge and perceptions regarding the HPV vaccine and discuss its acceptability and uptake implications. Methods We conducted a qualitative study in the Lusaka district between June 2021 and November 2021 using semi-structured interviews with adolescent girls aged 15-18 years regardless of their HPV vaccination status. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, and NVIVO 12 was used for data management and analysis. We coded transcripts deductively and inductively based on emerging themes. Perceptions were coded using the health belief model constructs. Results We interviewed 30 adolescent girls to reach saturation. Seventeen girls reported having received at least one dose of the HPV vaccine. Participants expressed variable knowledge and awareness about HPV and the HPV vaccine. Participants exhibited positive attitudes towards the HPV vaccine and perceived it as beneficial. However, there were multiple perceived barriers to vaccination, such as the need for parental consent, not being in school, concerns about vaccine side effects, and belief in myths and misinformation. Conclusion The adolescent girls in this study showed variable knowledge and positive attitudes toward the HPV vaccine despite the many perceived barriers. To support increased HPV vaccine acceptability and uptake among adolescent girls in Zambia, it is critical to actively engage stakeholders involved in HPV vaccination, such as adolescents and their parents, and debunk myths and misconceptions about HPV vaccination. Health education in schools and communities should be implemented to increase knowledge about HPV and HPV vaccination among adolescents and their parents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mwansa Ketty Lubeya
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, The University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
- Women and Newborn Hospital, University Teaching Hospitals, Lusaka, Zambia
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Carla J. Chibwesha
- Clinical HIV Research Unit, Helen Joseph Hospital, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Mulindi Mwanahamuntu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, The University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
- Women and Newborn Hospital, University Teaching Hospitals, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Moses Mukosha
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Simone Frank
- School of Medicine, North Carolina Translational and Clinical Sciences (NC TraCS) Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Mary Kawonga
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Escoffery C, Ogutu EA, Sakas Z, Hester KA, Ellis A, Rodriguez K, Jaishwal C, Yang C, Dixit S, Bose A, Sarr M, Kilembe W, Bednarczyk RA, Freeman MC. Drivers of early childhood vaccination success in Nepal, Senegal, and Zambia: a multiple case study analysis using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. Implement Sci Commun 2023; 4:109. [PMID: 37667374 PMCID: PMC10478385 DOI: 10.1186/s43058-023-00489-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The fundamental components of a vaccine delivery system are well-documented, but robust evidence is needed on how the related processes and implementation strategies - including the facilitators and barriers - contribute to improvements in childhood vaccination coverage. The purpose of this study was to identify critical facilitators and barriers to the implementation of common interventions across three countries that have dramatically increased coverage of early childhood vaccination over the past 20 years, and to qualify common or divergent themes in their success. METHODS We conducted 278 key informant interviews and focus group discussions with public health leaders at the regional, district, and local levels and community members in Nepal, Senegal, and Zambia to identify intervention activities and the facilitators and barriers to implementation. We used thematic analysis grounded in the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) constructs of inner and outer settings to identify immunization program key facilitators and barriers. RESULTS We found that the common facilitators to program implementation across the countries were the CFIR inner setting constructs of (1) networks and communications, (2) goals and feedback, (3) relative priority, and (4) readiness for implementation and outer setting constructs of (5) cosmopolitanism and (6) external policies and mandates. The common barriers were incentives and rewards, available resources, access to knowledge and information, and patients' needs and resources. Critical to the success of these national immunization programs were prioritization and codification of health as a human right, clear chain of command and shared ownership of immunization, communication of program goals and feedback, offering of incentives at multiple levels, training of staff central to vaccination education, the provision of resources to support the program, key partnerships and guidance on implementation and adoption of vaccination policies. CONCLUSION Adequate organizational commitment, resources, communication, training, and partnerships were the most critical facilitators for these countries to improve childhood vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cam Escoffery
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Zoe Sakas
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Kyra A Hester
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Anna Ellis
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Katie Rodriguez
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Chandni Jaishwal
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Chenmua Yang
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Sameer Dixit
- Center for Molecular Dynamics Nepal, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Anindya Bose
- WHO Nepal Immunization Preventable Disease Division, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Moussa Sarr
- Institut de Recherche en Santé de Surveillance Epidemiologique Et de Formation (IRESSEF), Dakar, Senegal
| | - William Kilembe
- Center for Family, Health Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - Matthew C Freeman
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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Hester KA, Sakas Z, Ogutu EA, Dixit S, Ellis AS, Yang C, Chanda C, Freeman MC, Orenstein WA, Sarr M, Bednarczyk RA. Critical interventions for demand generation in Zambia, Nepal, and Senegal with regards to the 5C psychological antecedents of vaccination. Vaccine X 2023; 14:100341. [PMID: 37519776 PMCID: PMC10372309 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvacx.2023.100341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Childhood vaccination is an effective intervention for lowering the burden of infectious disease. Vaccine coverage has increased globally, but vaccine hesitancy and refusal threatens these gains. The 5C psychological antecedents of vaccination ("5C") provides a validated measure of "vaccine hesitancy or confidence" to assess individual thoughts and behaviors behind vaccination. We investigated population-level factors that contributed to high and sustained vaccination coverage in Zambia, Nepal, and Senegal, and alignment with the 5Cs. Methods Data was collected in the larger Exemplars in Vaccine Delivery study, from focus group discussions (FDGs) and key informant interviews (KIIs) at the national, regional, district, health facility, and community levels of health systems in Zambia, Nepal, and Senegal. We assessed the demand environment, as relayed by participants, and identified interventions reported as successful for demand generation, then retroactively aligned the interventions with the 5C constructs. Results Demand was positively correlated with high confidence and collective responsibility. Psychological constraints sometimes impacted demand. Physical constraints created barriers in some communities, particularly difficult to access (i.e., mountainous). Occasionally, physical constraints did not affect vaccination behavior - parents believed the benefits of vaccination worth pursuing. Factors negatively correlated with demand and intent, complacency and calculation, had limited impact. Critical interventions were: targeted and tailored health education activities (media partnerships, school outreach); community engagement; community ownership; and community involvement (community health workers, leaders, religious figures). Conclusion We found similar interventions used to generate demand, with strategies aligned with the 5C constructs. Categorizing interventions by drivers of demand may help strategic planning and the division of resources; decision makers may choose to implement our suggested interventions. Assessing the 5Cs allows decision-makers to operationalize demand generation into concrete interventions and policies, and determine the individual impact of these constructs on the population and focus efforts on interventions tailored to a specific need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyra A. Hester
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Zoe Sakas
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Sameer Dixit
- Center for Molecular Dynamics Nepal, Katmandu, Nepal
| | - Anna S. Ellis
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Chenmua Yang
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Chama Chanda
- Center for Family Health Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | | | - Moussa Sarr
- Institut de Recherche en Santé de Surveillance Epidemiologique et de Formation (IRESSEF), Dakar, Senegal
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Fullman N, Correa GC, Ikilezi G, Phillips DE, Reynolds HW. Assessing Potential Exemplars in Reducing Zero-Dose Children: A Novel Approach for Identifying Positive Outliers in Decreasing National Levels and Geographic Inequalities in Unvaccinated Children. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11030647. [PMID: 36992231 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11030647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Understanding past successes in reaching unvaccinated or “zero-dose” children can help inform strategies for improving childhood immunization in other settings. Drawing from positive outlier methods, we developed a novel approach for identifying potential exemplars in reducing zero-dose children. Methods: Focusing on 2000–2019, we assessed changes in the percentage of under-one children with no doses of the diphtheria–tetanus–pertussis vaccine (no-DTP) across two geographic dimensions in 56 low- or lower-middle-income countries: (1) national levels; (2) subnational gaps, as defined as the difference between the 5th and 95th percentiles of no-DTP prevalence across second administrative units. Countries with the largest reductions for both metrics were considered positive outliers or potential ‘exemplars’, demonstrating exception progress in reducing national no-DTP prevalence and subnational inequalities. Last, so-called “neighborhood analyses” were conducted for the Gavi Learning Hub countries (Nigeria, Mali, Uganda, and Bangladesh), comparing them with countries that had similar no-DTP measures in 2000 but different trajectories through 2019. Results: From 2000 to 2019, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, and India had the largest absolute decreases for the two no-DTP dimensions—national prevalence and subnational gaps—while Bangladesh and Burundi registered the largest relative reductions for each no-DTP metric. Neighborhood analyses highlighted possible opportunities for cross-country learning among Gavi Learning Hub countries and potential exemplars in reducing zero-dose children. Conclusions: Identifying where exceptional progress has occurred is the first step toward better understanding how such gains could be achieved elsewhere. Further examination of how countries have successfully reduced levels of zero-dose children—especially across variable contexts and different drivers of inequality—could support faster, sustainable advances toward greater vaccination equity worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Fullman
- Exemplars in Global Health, Gates Ventures, 2401 Elliott Ave, Seattle, WA 98121, USA
| | - Gustavo C Correa
- Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, Chemin du Pommier 40, Le Grand-Saconnex, 1218 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Gloria Ikilezi
- Exemplars in Global Health, Gates Ventures, 2401 Elliott Ave, Seattle, WA 98121, USA
| | - David E Phillips
- Exemplars in Global Health, Gates Ventures, 2401 Elliott Ave, Seattle, WA 98121, USA
| | - Heidi W Reynolds
- Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, Chemin du Pommier 40, Le Grand-Saconnex, 1218 Geneva, Switzerland
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Hester KA, Sakas Z, Ellis AS, Bose AS, Darwar R, Gautam J, Jaishwal C, James H, Keskinocak P, Nazzal D, Awino Ogutu E, Rodriguez K, Castillo Zunino F, Dixit S, Bednarczyk RA, Freeman MC. Critical success factors for high routine immunization performance: A case study of Nepal. Vaccine X 2022; 12:100214. [PMID: 36148265 PMCID: PMC9486040 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvacx.2022.100214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Nepal reported high and sustained immunization coverage compared to peers. National and multi-national partnerships supported information sharing, division of labor, and mutual capacity building. Pro-vaccine messaging through various mediums, including Female Community Health Volunteers, which was tailored to local needs, generated public awareness. Cultural values fostered collective responsibility and community ownership of vaccine coverage.
Introduction The essential components of a vaccine delivery system are well-documented, but robust evidence on how and why the related processes and implementation strategies drive catalytic improvements in vaccination coverage are not well established. To address this gap, we identified critical success factors that may have led to substantial improvements in routine childhood immunization coverage in Nepal from 2000 through 2019. Methods We identified Nepal as an exemplar in the delivery of early childhood immunization through analysis of DTP1 and DTP3 coverage data. Through interviews and focus group discussions at the national, regional, district, health post, and community level, we investigated factors that contributed to high and sustained vaccine coverage. We conducted a thematic analysis through application of implementation science frameworks to determine critical success factors. We triangulated these findings with quantitative analyses using publicly available data. Results The following success factors emerged: 1) Codification of health as a human right, - along with other vaccine-specific legislation - ensured the stability of vaccination programming; 2) National and multi-national partnerships supported information sharing, division of labor, and mutual capacity building; 3) Pro-vaccine messaging through various mediums, which was tailored to local needs, generated public awareness; 4) Female Community Health Volunteers educated community members as trusted and compassionate neighbors; and 5) Cultural values fostered collective responsibility and community ownership of vaccine coverage. Conclusion This case study of Nepal suggests that the success of its national immunization program relied on the engagement and understanding of the beneficiaries. The immunization program was supported by consistent and reliable commitment, collaboration, awareness, and collective responsibility between the government, community, and partners. These networks are strengthened through a collective dedication to vaccination programming and a universal belief in health as a human right.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyra A. Hester
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Zoe Sakas
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Anna S. Ellis
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Anindya S. Bose
- World Health Organization, Nepal-Immunization Prevention Division, Nepal
| | - Roopa Darwar
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jhalak Gautam
- Family Welfare Division, Department of Health Services, Ministry of Health and Population, Nepal
| | - Chandni Jaishwal
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Hanleigh James
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Pinar Keskinocak
- H. Milton Stewart School of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Dima Nazzal
- H. Milton Stewart School of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Katie Rodriguez
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Francisco Castillo Zunino
- H. Milton Stewart School of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | | | - Matthew C. Freeman
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Corresponding author at: 1518 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
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Bobo P, Hines JZ, Chilengi R, Auld AF, Agolory SG, Silumesii A, Nkengasong J. Leveraging HIV Program and Civil Society to Accelerate COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake, Zambia. Emerg Infect Dis 2022; 28:S244-S246. [PMID: 36502463 DOI: 10.3201/eid2813.220743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
To accelerate COVID-19 vaccination delivery, Zambia integrated COVID-19 vaccination into HIV treatment centers and used World AIDS Day 2021 to launch a national vaccination campaign. This campaign was associated with significantly increased vaccinations, demonstrating that HIV programs can be leveraged to increase COVID-19 vaccine uptake.
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Peptan C, Băleanu VD, Mărcău FC. Study on the Vaccination of the Population of Romania against Monkeypox in Terms of Medical Security. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:1834. [PMID: 36366343 PMCID: PMC9697308 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10111834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Although it has been shown in numerous studies that immunization of the population by vaccination is the most effective way to protect against smallpox or other polioviruses, the anti-vaccination public rhetoric recorded during the COVID-19 pandemic is likely to influence the populations acceptance of vaccination against newly emerging viruses. This fact influenced our decision to study the vaccination of the Romanian population against the virus that causes monkeypox, aiming to identify the degree of compliance regarding the decision related to vaccination acceptance/non-acceptance/hesitation, based on the survey of a representative sample of respondents. The study is based on an online questionnaire completed between 1 July and 31 July 2022 by 820 individuals, aged 18 years or above, with a permanent residency in Romania. The study was undertaken in order to observe the attitudes of the respondents regarding the acceptance, refusal, or hesitation of vaccination against monkeypox. The sociological data resulting from the application of the questionnaire on 820 people highlighted that 97.16% were vaccinated with the vaccines of the national mandatory scheme and 53.32% were vaccinated with the optional vaccines (rotavirus vaccine, anti-hepatitis A, meningococcal vaccine, etc.). Although 47.13% of respondents considered monkeypox to be a real problem facing humanity today, only 26.37% of those surveyed expressed their fear of becoming infected, and 29.30% were willing to immunize themselves against the virus by vaccination. Only 19.59% of respondents believed that the monkeypox disease will generate a new global pandemic, while 31.86% considered pandemics to be a human security issue, and 30.28% expressed their desire to accept a reduction in some rights and freedoms, in the short term, for the adoption of institutional measures to combat a possible pandemic caused by monkeypox. The study clearly highlights the fact that monkeypox is perceived as a threat to the health of the population, with relatively low acceptance of conspiracy theories regarding its origins/manifestation/consequences among respondents (between 21.7% and 28.9%). The vaccination of the population against monkeypox is strongly influenced by the validity of the results obtained over time, in the vaccination campaigns against the smallpox virus (vaccine found in the mandatory vaccination scheme in Romania until 1979). We believe that the negative public rhetoric regarding the COVID-19 vaccination is likely to negatively influence monkeypox vaccination. Although specialized studies and practical results showed that the immunization of the population through vaccination represents an important vector in the prevention/management of pandemic-type issues, we believe that a national pro-vaccination campaign, based on scientific evidence, can lead the population to accept vaccination when the epidemiological context requires it. We also believe that a culture of health security needs to be developed among citizens to raise awareness of the role of vaccines as an important vector in the field of population health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cătălin Peptan
- Faculty of Educational Sciences, Law and Public Administration, “Constantin Brâncuși” University of Târgu Jiu, 210185 Târgu Jiu, Romania
| | - Vlad Dumitru Băleanu
- Faculty of Medical and Behavioural Sciences, “Constantin Brâncuși” University of Târgu Jiu, 210185 Târgu Jiu, Romania
| | - Flavius Cristian Mărcău
- Faculty of Educational Sciences, Law and Public Administration, “Constantin Brâncuși” University of Târgu Jiu, 210185 Târgu Jiu, Romania
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