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Durizzo K, Awoonor-Williams K, Harttgen K, Günther I. Unpacking the impact of COVID-19 on child immunization: evidence from Ghana. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1652. [PMID: 38902720 PMCID: PMC11191367 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-19033-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, governments implemented social distancing regulations to limit the spread of the disease. Some health experts warned that these measures could negatively affect access to essential health services, such as routine childhood immunizations. Others noted that without these regulations, COVID-19 cases would increase, leading to overburdened health systems. METHODS We analyze four years (2018-2021) of monthly administrative data on childhood immunizations in all administrative districts in Ghana and exploit variations in social distancing regulations across districts. Given variations in social distancing regulations across Ghanaian districts, we can further differentiate between the effect of public lockdowns and the effect of the pandemic. RESULTS We find that child immunizations in Ghana declined by 6% during the public lockdown in April 2020, but the country compensated with higher vaccination rates starting in June, and immunization services recovered to pre-pandemic growth levels by 2021. Time-critical vaccines, such as polio, were not affected at all. We do find a substantially larger disruption in April 2020 (14%) and a slower recovery in 2020 in the 40 lockdown-affected districts. Interestingly, vaccination rates already decreased in February and March by about 5% before the public lockdown and before the pandemic had reached Ghana, but with the pandemic already spreading globally and in the news. CONCLUSION Our results indicate that the negative effect on child immunization was less severe and shorter than predicted by experts. Fear of COVID-19 and delayed vaccination campaigns had a substantial impact on childhood immunization while rising COVID-19 cases and moderate social distancing regulations did not seem to affect immunization rates.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Isabel Günther
- ETH Zurich, Clausiusstrasse 37, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
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Baxter L, Slater R, Hermany L, Bhatti A, Eiden AL, Mitrovich R, Connolly MP, Vanderslott S, Nyaku M, Bhatt A. Identifying characteristics that enable resilient immunisation programmes: a scoping review. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e072794. [PMID: 38806437 PMCID: PMC11138283 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-072794] [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: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the fragility of immunisation programmes and resulted in a significant reduction in vaccination rates, with increasing vaccine-preventable disease outbreaks consequently reported. These vulnerabilities underscore the importance of resilient immunisation programmes to ensure optimal performance during crises. To date, a framework for assessing immunisation programme resilience does not exist. We conducted a scoping review of immunisation programmes during times of crisis to identify factors that characterise resilient immunisation programmes, which may inform an Immunisation Programme Resilience Tool. DESIGN Scoping review design followed the Arksey and O'Malley framework, and manuscript reporting followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses for Scoping Reviews guidelines. DATA SOURCES CINAHL, CENTRAL, Embase, Google Scholar, MEDLINE, PsycINFO and Web of Science and databases were searched between 1 January 2011 and 2 September 2023. Citation searching of identified studies was also performed. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA We included primary empirical peer-reviewed studies that discussed the resilience of immunisation programme to crises, shocks or disruptions. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Two independent reviewers screened records and performed data extraction. We extracted data on study location and design, crisis description, and resilience characteristics discussed, and identified evidence gaps in the literature. Findings were synthesised using tabulation and an evidence gap map. RESULTS Thirty-seven studies met the eligibility criteria. These studies captured research conducted across six continents, with most concentrated in Africa, Asia and Europe. One study had a randomised controlled trial design, while 36 studies had observational designs (15 analytical and 21 descriptive). We identified five characteristics of resilient immunisation programmes drawing on the Health System Resilience Index (Integration, Awareness, Resource Availability and Access, Adaptiveness and Self-regulation) and several evidence gaps in the literature. CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, no immunisation programme resilience tool exists. We identified factors from the Health System Resilience Index coupled with factors identified through primary empirical evidence, which may inform development of an immunisation programme resilience tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke Baxter
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Aomesh Bhatt
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Mohd Baharudin JA, Mohd Zain MR, Taib F, Abd Hamid IJ. Knowledge and practice of childhood immunisation among parents in Kelantan, Malaysia: A cross-sectional study. MALAYSIAN FAMILY PHYSICIAN : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE ACADEMY OF FAMILY PHYSICIANS OF MALAYSIA 2024; 19:6. [PMID: 38371722 PMCID: PMC10866723 DOI: 10.51866/oa.202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Parents are key decision-makers in the immunisation practice and compliance of children. This study aimed to determine the knowledge and practice of immunisation among parents in Kelantan, Malaysia, and their associated factors. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted using a validated online questionnaire from May to June 2021. An invitation was distributed to parents attending a university hospital and extended families of staff through online platforms. A total of 311 parents participated in the study. The questionnaire consisted of 10 questions each on knowledge and practice and three questions on vaccination status. Descriptive analysis was performed. The associations between the sociodemographic characteristics and knowledge and practice scores were determined using the chi-square test, and predictive factors were identified using logistic regression analysis. Results Most respondents were Malay (94.2%), Muslim (94.5%), women (79.7%) and married (96.1%). The median score for immunisation knowledge and practice was 8 (interquartile range [IQR]=2) and 7 (IQR=3), respectively. Multiple logistic regression revealed that parents who were unmarried or single, less educated, and had lower incomes were predicted to have poor knowledge of childhood vaccination (P<0.05). Conversely, those living outside Kota Bharu, less educated, and younger parents were predicted to have poor vaccination practice of childhood vaccination (P<0.05). Most respondents (97.8%) indicated completing their children's vaccination schedule. Conclusion Parental education and household income are associated with immunisation knowledge and practice. Improving access to information about childhood vaccination among targeted groups may further boost immunization coverage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamil Aiman Mohd Baharudin
- MBBS, MMed (Paediatric), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia, Persiaran Ilmu, Bandar Baru Nilai, Nilai, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Rizal Mohd Zain
- MD, MMed (Paediatric), Department of Paediatrics, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia.
| | - Fahisham Taib
- MB BCh BAO, FRCPCH, Department of Paediatrics, Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang, Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Intan Juliana Abd Hamid
- MD, MMed (Paediatric), PhD, Department of Clinical Medicine, Institut Perubatan dan Pergigian, Termaju, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kepala Batas, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
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Kumar N, Allyhan P, Aggarwal A. Effect of Covid pandemic on immunization status of children in tertiary care Hospital of North India: reason for partial and non-immunization a cross-sectional study. JOURNAL OF HEALTH, POPULATION, AND NUTRITION 2024; 43:8. [PMID: 38221618 PMCID: PMC10789037 DOI: 10.1186/s41043-023-00494-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low immunization coverage in India attributes to many factors including sociodemographic factors and people's behavior. COVID-19 pandemic resulted in disruptions in achieving optimum availability and utilization of immunization services. This study was carried out to find out the immunization status of children in the post COVID era and various factors responsible for non-immunization during the pandemic. METHODS This cross-sectional study included parents of 225 admitted children aged 1-6 years were interviewed using a semi-structured open-ended questionnaire. Children were classified as completely immunized, partially immunized and unimmunized on the basis of vaccines missed given under first year of life. Reasons for non-immunization and delay/missed vaccination during COVID-19 pandemic were recorded. RESULTS Of the 225 children, 162 (72%; 95% CI 66-78%) were completely immunized, 55 (24.4%; 95% CI 19-30%) were partially immunized and 8 (3.6%; 95% CI 1-6%) were unimmunized. Parents with hospital deliveries, higher education level and lesser birth order were more likely to have children with better immunization status (p < 0.05). First dose of measles scheduled at 9 months and 3rd dose of pentavalent vaccine/OPV/Rotavirus vaccine scheduled at 14 weeks were most commonly missed vaccines among partially immunized. Lack of awareness (n = 36, 57.1%; 95% CI 45-70%) was the common reason for partial and non-immunization followed by illness of child (n = 21, 33.3%; 95% CI 21-45%) and COVID-19 pandemic (n = 11, 17.4%; 95% CI 8-27%). Pandemic was reason for delay in 50 (22.2%; 95% CI 17-28%) children. Restrictions of movement (64%; 95% CI 50-78%), fear of being exposed to COVID-19 (52%; 95% CI 38-66%) were the most common reasons for delay during the pandemic. Of the 50 children who had delay due to pandemic, 39 children (17.3%; 95% CI 12-22%) received their catch-up immunization after the pandemic. No child remained completely unimmunized due to COVID-19 pandemic. CONCLUSIONS Although COVID-19 pandemic resulted in disruptions in routine immunization services, sociodemographic factors such as awareness for immunization, parental education and various beliefs for immunization were responsible for the children remaining unimmunized or partially immunized after the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narender Kumar
- Department of Pediatrics, University College of Medical Sciences and Guru Tegh Bahadur Hospital, New Delhi, 110095, India
| | - Pinki Allyhan
- Department of Pediatrics, University College of Medical Sciences and Guru Tegh Bahadur Hospital, New Delhi, 110095, India
| | - Anju Aggarwal
- Department of Pediatrics, University College of Medical Sciences and Guru Tegh Bahadur Hospital, New Delhi, 110095, India.
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Diallo M, Dicko I, Dembélé S, Konaté B, Doumbia CO, Sanogo I, Togola OB, Konaté D, Sangaré M, Thiam H, Coulibaly YI, Diawara SI, Toloba Y, Coulibaly AB, Diakité M, Doumbia S. Comparing vaccination coverage before and during COVID-19 pandemic in children under one year in the health district of commune V in Bamako, Mali. BMC Pediatr 2023; 23:599. [PMID: 38012578 PMCID: PMC10680293 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-023-04416-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although an essential frontline service in the prevention of child morbidity and mortality, there are indications that routine vaccinations have been disrupted during the COVID-19 pandemic. The present study aimed to compare vaccination coverage before COVID-19 in Mali in 2019 and during COVID-19 in 2020. OBJECTIVE To compare vaccination coverages before COVID-19 in Mali in 2019 and during COVID-19 in 2020. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS We collected routine immunization data from 2019 to 2020 of children under one year in the health district of Commune V in Bamako which includes twelve community health centers (CSCom). RESULTS Considering all vaccines together, coverage in 2019 was higher than in 2020 (88.7% vs. 71,6%) (p < 10- 3, Fig. 1). In 2020, low proportions of children vaccinated were observed in May (51.1%) two months after the first COVID-19 case in Mali on March 25, 2020. For all vaccines, the mean number of children vaccinated was significantly higher in 2019 (before COVID-19) as compared to 2020 (during COVID-19) (p < 0.05). However, in September and October 2019 BCG vaccine coverage was lower in 2019 as compared to 2020 (p < 10- 3). CONCLUSION COVID-19 pandemic has affected routine childhood vaccine coverage in Commune V of Bamako, particularly in May 2020. Therefore, new strategies are needed to improve vaccine coverage in young children below 1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mountaga Diallo
- University Clinical Research Center (UCRC), University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako (USTT-B), Bamako, Mali.
| | - Ilo Dicko
- University Clinical Research Center (UCRC), University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako (USTT-B), Bamako, Mali
| | - Samou Dembélé
- University Clinical Research Center (UCRC), University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako (USTT-B), Bamako, Mali
| | - Brahima Konaté
- University Clinical Research Center (UCRC), University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako (USTT-B), Bamako, Mali
| | - Cheick Oumar Doumbia
- University Clinical Research Center (UCRC), University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako (USTT-B), Bamako, Mali
| | - Ibrahim Sanogo
- University Clinical Research Center (UCRC), University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako (USTT-B), Bamako, Mali
| | | | - Drissa Konaté
- University Clinical Research Center (UCRC), University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako (USTT-B), Bamako, Mali
| | - Moussa Sangaré
- Neglected Tropical Diseases Research Unit, University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako (USTT-B), Bamako, Mali
| | - Hawa Thiam
- Centre de Santé de Référence de la Commune V du District Sanitaire de Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Yaya Ibrahim Coulibaly
- Neglected Tropical Diseases Research Unit, University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako (USTT-B), Bamako, Mali
| | - Sory Ibrahim Diawara
- University Clinical Research Center (UCRC), University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako (USTT-B), Bamako, Mali
| | - Yacouba Toloba
- University Clinical Research Center (UCRC), University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako (USTT-B), Bamako, Mali
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire du Point G, Bamako, Mali
| | | | - Mahamadou Diakité
- University Clinical Research Center (UCRC), University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako (USTT-B), Bamako, Mali
| | - Seydou Doumbia
- University Clinical Research Center (UCRC), University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako (USTT-B), Bamako, Mali
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Manan A, Wessels T, Finlayson H. Routine immunization experience and practices during the COVID-19 pandemic of caregivers attending a tertiary hospital in Cape Town. FRONTIERS IN HEALTH SERVICES 2023; 3:1242796. [PMID: 38028940 PMCID: PMC10646605 DOI: 10.3389/frhs.2023.1242796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Immunizations are successful, cost-effective interventions for the control of infectious diseases and preventing mortality. Lockdown restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic had adverse effects on child-health including access to immunizations. Our study aimed to document immunization status, describe caregiver experiences around accessing immunizations during the COVID-19 pandemic and identify any significant factors associated with immunization status. Methods Caregivers, with children between the ages of 10 to 33 months, attending Tygerberg Hospital Paediatric Department were invited to complete an anonymous survey from 15th September-15th December 2022. Data was captured using a REDCap questionnaire and analysed using Stata Version 17. Results 171 caregivers completed the survey. Immunizations were up to date in 81%. Most (155, 88%) agreed it was important to immunize their child. A third of caregivers (55) felt it was unsafe to attend the clinic and 37% (62) agreed it was difficult to attend. Caregivers receiving a social grant (p = 0.023) or who felt safe attending clinic (p = 0.053) were more likely to be up to date with immunizations. Three-quarters (128, 78%) were aware of recommendations to continue immunization. These caregivers were more likely to think it was important to immunize on time (p = 0.003) and to receive family encouragement (p = 0.001). Caregivers were more likely to attend clinic if they felt it was important to vaccinate on time (p < 0.001) or felt safe attending clinic (p = 0.036). Conclusion Immunization rates were higher than expected but below global targets. Although caregivers feel immunizations are important, unknowns still instilled fear of attending clinics. Social factors such as family support and social grants improve vaccine seeking behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Manan
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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Elmi N, Smit L, Wessels T, Zunza M, Rabie H. COVID-19 lockdown effect on healthcare utilization and in-hospital mortality in children under 5 years in Cape Town, South Africa: a cross-sectional study. J Trop Pediatr 2023; 69:fmad035. [PMID: 37830545 PMCID: PMC10570990 DOI: 10.1093/tropej/fmad035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 pandemic measures resulted in the de-escalation of non-COVID-19 healthcare provision. METHODS A retrospective cross-sectional study of routinely collected data was done to investigate the effect of COVID-19 policies on the healthcare utilization and mortality of children younger than 5 years in Eastern Cape Town, South Africa. We compared visits to primary and urgent care facilities, hospitalization, in-hospital deaths, and vaccine uptake from 1 January to 31 December 2020 to similar periods in 2018 and 2019. RESULTS During April and May 2020, the most restricted period, visits to primary care facilities declined from 126 049 in 2019 to 77 000 (1.8-fold; p < 0.05). This corresponded with a 1.2-fold reduction in the provision of the first dose of measles vaccine at 6 months compared to 2019. Throughout 2020 there was a 4-fold decline in the number of fully immunized children at 1 year of age (p = 0.84). Emergency room visits fell by 35.7% in 2020 (16 368) compared to 2019 (25 446). Hospital admissions decreased significantly (p < 0.01) in 2020 (9810) compared to 2018 (11 698) and 2019 (10 247). The in-hospital mortality rate increased from 2.3% (96/4163) in 2019 to 3.8% (95/2498) (p < 0.01) in Tygerberg Hospital, where 80% (95/119) of deaths were recorded. Twelve of the 119 (10%) deaths occurred in HIV-positive children (p = <0.01). CONCLUSION Measures instituted during the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted access to healthcare services for children. This resulted in an immediate, and potential future, indirect effect on child morbidity and mortality in Cape Town.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noradin Elmi
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Stellenbosch University and Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town 8000, South Africa
| | - Liezl Smit
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Stellenbosch University and Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town 8000, South Africa
| | - Thandi Wessels
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Stellenbosch University and Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town 8000, South Africa
| | - Moleen Zunza
- Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 8000, South Africa
| | - Helena Rabie
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Stellenbosch University and Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town 8000, South Africa
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Berhane HY, Worku A, Fawzi W. Effect of COVID-19 on Routine Childhood Vaccination in Bahir Dar City, Northwestern, Ethiopia. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1569. [PMID: 37896972 PMCID: PMC10611212 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11101569] [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: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite free vaccinations for all children, Ethiopia is one of the ten countries where most children do not receive all of their basic vaccines. The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted service delivery and utilization worldwide. In this study, we assessed the effect of the pandemic on routine childhood vaccinations in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia. The data were collected from immunization records, health system monthly reports, and interviews with vaccination professionals. The data were analyzed using interrupted time series and thematic analyses. In 6940 records covering 2018-2022, the number of vaccine doses that were delivered steadily increased except for 2021/22. Vaccine delivery consistently increased prior to the pandemic. Immediately after the first case was reported, there were some disruptions, but they were not statistically significant compared to the pre-pandemic period. In-depth interviews also confirmed this finding, showing early pandemic fear and protective measures had an impact but were not sustained. These results show that COVID-19 has had a transient but non-significant effect on childhood vaccination. Although the interruption was statistically insignificant, it could reverse decades of progress toward safeguarding children from vaccine-preventable diseases. Therefore, we must intensify our initiatives to boost childhood vaccination rates and restore pre-pandemic services to regain momentum and avoid future setbacks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Yemane Berhane
- Nutrition and Behavioral Sciences Department, Addis Continental Institute of Public Health, Addis Ababa 26751/1000, Ethiopia
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
| | - Alemayehu Worku
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics Department, Addis Continental Institute of Public Health, Addis Ababa 26751/1000, Ethiopia;
- School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa 1176, Ethiopia
| | - Wafaie Fawzi
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
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Dhamania M, Gaur K. Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on routine immunization services in a tertiary care hospital of Rajasthan, India. Clin Exp Vaccine Res 2023; 12:313-318. [PMID: 38025919 PMCID: PMC10655151 DOI: 10.7774/cevr.2023.12.4.313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Globally, 25 million children were either unvaccinated or under-vaccinated in year 2021. Among them, India had the highest number of children unvaccinated. Studies have shown impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on routine health-care services. Present study aimed to estimate the impact of COVID-19 on utilization of routine immunization services during years 2020 and 2021 in tertiary-care facility. Materials and Methods Record based descriptive analytic study was conducted at pediatric tertiary-care hospital, Jaipur. Data of children vaccinated as per the National Immunization Schedule for the period January 2019 to December 2021 were retrieved from the immunization records. Doses administered were assessed as a proxy measure of vaccine coverage. The vaccination trends of 2020 and 2021 were compared assuming base year 2019. Unpaired t-test of significance and Pearson correlation was used for correlation analysis. Results There was significant drop in the vaccine counts after emergence of COVID-19 pandemic. In year 2020 and 2021, mean monthly vaccine count was 2,190±715.1 and 2,305±393.2, respectively, in which maximum drop was in April 2020 (-79.12%) and May 2021 (-57.16%) when it was compared with matched month of base year. There was negative correlation between percent change in vaccine count and COVID-19 cases in 2020 (r=-0.057, p=0.861) and 2021 (r=-0.827, p=0.001) as compared to year 2019. Conclusion Study concludes that there was a significant gap in utilization of routine immunization services during the COVID-19 pandemic. This necessitates planning and management of routine immunization services in-case of future pandemics to avoid resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases in the Rajasthan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madhvi Dhamania
- Department of Community Medicine, SMS Medical College, Jaipur, India
| | - Kusum Gaur
- Department of Community Medicine, SMS Medical College, Jaipur, India
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Alghofaili MA, Aljuaid SO, Alqahtani N, Alghufaili M, Abd-Ellatif EE. Factors Contributing to the Delayed Vaccination Among Children in Riyadh City, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study. Cureus 2023; 15:e43188. [PMID: 37692740 PMCID: PMC10485872 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.43188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Immunizations protect children from deadly infectious diseases. The timeliness of vaccinating children is crucial to ensure effective immunization and to decrease the burden of many infectious diseases. Therefore, this study assessed the prevalence and determinants of vaccination delay among children in Riyadh City, Saudi Arabia. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted at the primary healthcare centers in Riyadh City, Saudi Arabia, on 593 parents with children of two years of age or below. It used a self-administered questionnaire inquiring about socio-demographic characteristics and assessing the vaccination statuses of their children and the causes of delayed vaccinations. Results The results showed that 7.1% of children had a delay in the previous vaccination. Of those delays, collectively, 77.5% were delays in inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV), oral poliovirus vaccine (OPV), and meningococcal vaccine (MCV) vaccines. The delay was mostly caused by an illness of the child on vaccination day, carelessness of parents, or long postponement. After adjusting for confounders, the father's high school or bachelor's education level (OR = 1.18, 95% CI: 1.03, 1.36) (p<0.05), child's mix-type nutrition (OR = 1.06, 95% CI: 1.02, 1.10) (p=0.001), and the belief that multiple vaccines are harmful to the child (POR = 1.03, 95% CI: 1.01, 1.06) (p=0.005) were positively associated with vaccination delay, while prematurity was negatively associated with vaccination delay (OR = 0.96, 95% CI: 0.93, 0.99) (p=0.031). Conclusion The study found the prevalence of vaccination delay was lower than in previous COVID-19-era studies. The child's illness was the main reason for the delay. Factors like parental education, nutrition type, and vaccine beliefs contributed to delays, while prematurity reduced delays. Measures should be strengthened to increase vaccination coverage for children.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sultan O Aljuaid
- Preventive Medicine, Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Najd Alqahtani
- College of Medicine, Princess Nourah Bint Abdul Rahman University, Riyadh, SAU
| | | | - Eman E Abd-Ellatif
- Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, EGY
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Aguinaga-Ontoso I, Guillen-Aguinaga S, Guillen-Aguinaga L, Alas-Brun R, Onambele L, Aguinaga-Ontoso E, Guillen-Grima F. COVID-19 Impact on DTP Vaccination Trends in Africa: A Joinpoint Regression Analysis. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1103. [PMID: 37376492 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11061103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Deaths due to vaccine-preventable diseases are one of the leading causes of death among African children. Vaccine coverage is an essential measure to decrease infant mortality. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the healthcare system and may have disrupted vaccine coverage. METHODS DTP third doses (DTP3) Vaccine Coverage was extracted from UNICEF databases from 2012 to 2021 (the last available date). Joinpoint regression was performed to detect the point where the trend changed. The annual percentage change (APC) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) was calculated for Africa and the regions. We compared DTP3 vaccination coverage in 2019-2021 in each country using the Chi-square test. RESULT During the whole period, the vaccine coverage in Africa increased with an Annual Percent change of 1.2% (IC 95% 0.9-1.5): We detected one joinpoint in 2019. In 2019-2021, there was a decrease in DTP3 coverage with an APC of -3.5 (95% -6.0; -0,9). (p < 0.001). Vaccination rates decreased in many regions of Sub-Saharan Africa, especially in Eastern and Southern Africa. There were 26 countries (Angola, Cabo Verde, Comoros, Congo, Côte d'Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Eswatini, The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mozambique, Rwanda, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Tunisia, Uganda, and Zimbabwe) where the vaccine coverage during the two years decreased. There were 10 countries (Angola, Cabo Verde, Comoros, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eswatini, The Gambia, Mozambique, Rwanda, Senegal, and Sudan) where the joinpoint regression detected a change in the trend. CONCLUSIONS COVID-19 has disrupted vaccine coverage, decreasing it all over Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Aguinaga-Ontoso
- Department of Health Sciences, Public University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Healthcare Research Institute of Navarra (IdiSNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | | | - Laura Guillen-Aguinaga
- Department of Health Sciences, Public University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Sykepleieavdelingen, Suldal Sykehjem, 4230 Sand, Norway
| | - Rosa Alas-Brun
- Department of Health Sciences, Public University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Luc Onambele
- School of Health Sciences, Catholic University of Central Africa, Yaounde 1110, Cameroon
| | | | - Francisco Guillen-Grima
- Department of Health Sciences, Public University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Healthcare Research Institute of Navarra (IdiSNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
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Alhusayn K, Alsulaiman T, Abdulkarim A, Sultana H, Jnaid H, Alendijani Y, Alkhenizan A. COVID-19 pandemic impact on primary immunization uptake. J Family Med Prim Care 2023; 12:1172-1178. [PMID: 37636172 PMCID: PMC10451573 DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_66_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose/Background Pediatricians across the world are seeing a steep drop in the number of children coming in for appointments due to COVID-19 pandemic. To prevent outbreaks of serious diseases that pose an even greater threat to children than COVID-19, it is important that children not skip their routine vaccines. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on primary immunization activities in Saudi Arabia. Settings and Design Cross-sectional design. Methods and Material The study was conducted at a community pediatric clinic. All parents of preschool-age children who visited the community pediatric clinics were asked to complete a self-administrated questionnaire on primary immunization uptake during the pandemic. Statistical Analysis Used The Chi-square and Fisher's exact test were performed to examine the demographic differences between participants who missed vaccination during the pandemic and reasons for missing the vaccination. Results Three hundred study participants completed our questionnaire. In total, 90.6% of respondents were up to date with their vaccinations prior to the pandemic, and most respondents believed that children should be immunized at an appropriate age, it is essential for children to be fully immunized, vaccination is effective in preventing serious disease, and childhood immunization is essential during the pandemic (98.3%, 98.7%, 97.3%, and 93.7%, respectively). In total, 72.4% of respondents did not miss their vaccinations during the pandemic, while 26.6% missed vaccinations. The most common reason for missing vaccinations during the pandemic was transportation difficulty and curfew, followed by fear of contracting COVID-19 infection (40.9% and 35.5%, respectively). Those who did not believe that childhood immunization was necessary during the pandemic were more likely to miss vaccinations during the pandemic (P < 0.001). In addition, those who did not have a family member with COVID-19 infection were more likely not to miss the vaccine (P < 0.001). Moreover, those who thought taking vaccinations in a primary care setting or hospital is safe were more likely not to miss the vaccination during the pandemic (P < 0.027) and (P < 0.001). Conclusions Significant portion of the population was affected and missed immunizations during the pandemic. The perceptions on the importance of immunization and having a family member affected with COVID-19 during the pandemic were important factors in missing immunizations. Moreover, transportation and fear of contracting COVID-19 during the curfew were also common reasons for missing immunizations during the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalid Alhusayn
- Department of Family Medicine and Polyclinics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Thamer Alsulaiman
- Department of Family Medicine and Polyclinics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Abdulkarim
- Department of Family Medicine and Polyclinics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Habiba Sultana
- Department of Family Medicine and Polyclinics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hussam Jnaid
- Department of Family Medicine and Polyclinics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yaser Alendijani
- Department of Family Medicine and Polyclinics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah Alkhenizan
- Department of Family Medicine and Polyclinics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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AlMahasis SO, Fox B, Ha D, Qian J, Wang CH, Westrick SC. Pharmacy-based immunization in rural USA during the COVID-19 pandemic: A survey of community pharmacists from five southeastern states. Vaccine 2023; 41:2503-2513. [PMID: 36898932 PMCID: PMC9988709 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2023.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Immunization rates for seasonal and non-seasonal vaccines dropped during the COVID-19 pandemic. Little is known about the extent to which community pharmacies in the USA continued to serve as immunization sites during the pandemic. This study compared 1) the types and perceived changes in non-COVID-19 vaccine doses administered at rural community pharmacies in 2020 (during the pandemic) to 2019 (pre-pandemic) and 2) the delivery of non-COVID-19 immunization services in 2020 to 2019. METHODS A mixed-mode (paper/electronic) survey of a convenience sample of 385 community pharmacies operating in rural settings and have administered ≥1 vaccine in 2019 and 2020 was distributed in May-August 2021. Survey development was informed by relevant literature, pre-tested with three individuals, and pilot-tested with 20 pharmacists. Non-response bias was assessed, and survey responses were analyzed using descriptive and bivariate statistics. RESULTS Of the 385 community pharmacies, 86 qualified pharmacies completed the survey (Response Rate = 23.8%). The percentage of pharmacies offering a given vaccine in 2019 and 2020 were similar; with one exception, a higher percentage of pharmacies reported having MMR administered for adults in the pharmacy in 2020 (McNemar's test; p-value = 0.0253). For each given vaccine, the majority of respondents did not perceive a change in the number of doses administered in 2020 compared to 2019. Further, the majority reported no difference in how they delivered immunization services during and pre-pandemic. However, a small percentage of respondents (6.0-22.0%) adapted their services by adopting several measures to ensure the safety and continuity of immunizations during the pandemic. CONCLUSION Findings highlight the importance of community pharmacies as immunization sites during the pandemic. Community pharmacies continued immunization delivery at community pharmacies during the pandemic with almost no noticeable change to types and doses of vaccines compared to pre-pandemic nor the process of vaccine delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sura O AlMahasis
- Department of Health Outcomes Research and Policy, Harrison College of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA; Social & Administrative Sciences Division, School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Brent Fox
- Department of Health Outcomes Research and Policy, Harrison College of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - David Ha
- Stanford Health Care, Stanford, CA, USA; Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Jingjing Qian
- Department of Health Outcomes Research and Policy, Harrison College of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Chih-Hsuan Wang
- Department of Educational Research, Measurement, and Assessment, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Salisa C Westrick
- Department of Health Outcomes Research and Policy, Harrison College of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA.
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Penna AL, de Aquino CM, Pinheiro MSN, do Nascimento RLF, Farias-Antúnez S, Araújo DABS, Mita C, Machado MMT, Castro MC. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on maternal mental health, early childhood development, and parental practices: a global scoping review. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:388. [PMID: 36823592 PMCID: PMC9950022 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15003-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In March 2020, the COVID-19 outbreak was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO), generating stark economic and social repercussions that directly or indirectly affected families' wellbeing and health status. AIMS This review aims at mapping the existing evidence on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on maternal mental health, early childhood development, and parental practices, worldwide, to identify evidence gaps and better inform future delivery of care and health policy measures. METHODS Following the protocol defined by PRISMA-ScR, this scoping review has searched for relevant studies published between January 2020 and June 2021, selecting evidence sources based on pre-established criteria. From a total of 2,308 articles, data were extracted from 537 publications from 35 countries on all three health domains. RESULTS The combined stressors brought forth by the pandemic have exerted a heavy burden on the mental health of mothers and the development of young children, partly mediated by its impact on parental practices. CONCLUSIONS Despite remaining gaps, we have identified sufficient evidence pointing to an urgent need for more concerted global research efforts and rapid policy responses to timely address severe and pervasive negative impacts to the mental health of mothers and children at a key developmental stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Luiza Penna
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, USA.
| | - Camila Machado de Aquino
- grid.8395.70000 0001 2160 0329Department of Community Health, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | | | | | - Simone Farias-Antúnez
- grid.411237.20000 0001 2188 7235Department of Health Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Araranguá, Brazil
| | | | - Carol Mita
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XCountway Library, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | | | - Marcia C. Castro
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDepartment of Global Health and Population, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, USA
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Determinants of Parents Taking Their Children for Scheduled Vaccinations during COVID-19 Pandemic in South Africa. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11020389. [PMID: 36851266 PMCID: PMC9963815 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11020389] [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: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Scheduled or routine childhood vaccinations are known for their effectiveness in eradicating fear for many life-threatening and disabling diseases and saving lives globally. This paper is aimed at assessing determinants of parents taking their children for scheduled vaccinations during the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa. Data used for this paper were obtained from the Human Sciences Research Council's (HSRC) COVID-19 Online Survey titled "One Year Later Survey", which was conducted between 25 June and 11 October 2021 in South Africa. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to achieve this study goal. Findings showed that just over half of parents (56.7%) reported taking their children for scheduled vaccinations across the country. Males were significantly less likely (aOR = 0.53 95% CI [0.45-0.61], p < 0.001) to have taken their children for scheduled vaccinations than females. Parents' experiences and views were among key determinants of parents having taken their children for scheduled vaccinations in South Africa. Parents who had never taken influenza (flu) vaccines were significantly less likely (aOR = 0.33 [0.28-039], p < 0.001) to have taken their children for scheduled vaccinations than those who had taken flu vaccines. Parents who did not know anyone who had personally experienced serious side effects to any vaccine were significantly less likely (aOR = 0.77 [0.66-0.90], p = 0.001) to have taken their children for scheduled vaccinations than those who knew anyone who had experienced them. Parents who did not think vaccines were a good way to protect communities from disease were significantly less likely (aOR = 0.50 [0.33-0.77], p = 0.001) to have taken their children for scheduled vaccinations than those who thought vaccines were a good way to protect communities from disease. These findings are of significance especially during the time when the country is still struggling to reach a substantial proportion of its population vaccinated for COVID-19. Thus, these findings may be relevant in determining parents' intentions to have their children receive the South African Department of Health recommended vaccines for their respective age group.
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Cardoso Pinto AM, Shariq S, Ranasinghe L, Sundar Budhathoki S, Skirrow H, Whittaker E, Seddon JA. Reasons for reductions in routine childhood immunisation uptake during the COVID-19 pandemic in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic review. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0001415. [PMID: 36963003 PMCID: PMC10021156 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0001415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has resulted in a substantial decline in routine immunisation coverage in children globally, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This study summarises the reasons for disruptions to routine child immunisations in LMICs. A systematic review (PROSPERO CRD42021286386) was conducted following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Six databases were searched: MEDLINE, Embase, Global Health, CINAHL, Scopus and MedRxiv, on 11/02/2022. Observational and qualitative studies published from January 2020 onwards were included if exploring reasons for missed immunisations during the COVID-19 pandemic in LMICs. Study appraisal used National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute and Critical Appraisal Skills Programme tools. Reasons for disruption were defined with descriptive codes; cross-sectional (quantitative) data were summarised as mean percentages of responses weighted by study population, and qualitative data were summarised narratively. A total of thirteen studies were included describing reasons behind disruptions; 7 cross-sectional (quantitative), 5 qualitative and 1 mixed methods. Seventeen reasons for disruptions were identified. In quantitative studies (total respondents = 2,853), the most common reasons identified were fear of COVID-19 and consequential avoidance of health centres (41.2%, SD ±13.3%), followed by transport challenges preventing both families and healthcare professionals from reaching vaccination services (11.1% SD ±16.6%). Most reasons stemmed from reduced healthcare-seeking (83.4%), as opposed to healthcare-delivery issues (15.2%). Qualitative studies showed a more even balance of healthcare-seeking (49.5%) and healthcare-delivery issues (50.5%), with fear of COVID-19 remaining a major identified issue (total respondents = 92). The most common reasons for disruption were parental fear of COVID-19 and avoidance of health services. Health systems must therefore prioritise public health messaging to encourage vaccine uptake and recovery of missed immunisations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sameed Shariq
- School of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lasith Ranasinghe
- Academic Foundation Doctor, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Shyam Sundar Budhathoki
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Helen Skirrow
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth Whittaker
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - James A. Seddon
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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Mishra K, Mohapatra I, Sarathi Mohapatra P, Madhusikta S, Parimita P. Challenges and barriers to immunization during COVID-19: An experience of parents/caregivers from a well-baby clinic of a tertiary care hospital of Eastern India. CLINICAL EPIDEMIOLOGY AND GLOBAL HEALTH 2023; 19:101200. [PMID: 36514347 PMCID: PMC9731810 DOI: 10.1016/j.cegh.2022.101200] [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: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Immunization in children is one of the best methods of preventing vaccine preventable diseases.With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic,there have been disruptions in vaccine supply,its uptake and perception towards routine immunization, globally and in India. This study was planned to identify the challenges faced by the parents, the perceived barriers towards childhood immunization and perception regarding vaccination during the ongoing pandemic. Methods A cross-sectional study was carried out in the well-baby clinic, providing immunization services. The informants were parents/caregivers of under-five children accompanying their children to the well-baby clinic within the study period. Data was collected using a semi-structured interviewer administered questionnaire and analysed using Epi-info software and p value less than 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Results Delay in immunization was noted in 62% of the children. The challenges stated by respondents for delay in immunization during this pandemic mostly were "fear about getting infected" (30%) and "someone instructed them not to take the child to the hospital if not ill" (13%). The most common perceived barriers were 'no vaccination sites were open' or 'did not know where the baby can be vaccinated'. 'Child should receive all vaccines'(99%) and 'safety is more important than vaccination' (83%)was the perception of respondents about immunization during the pandemic. Conclusion Though the respondents were aware of the need for timely vaccinations of their children, still a substantial delay was seen among majority of them due to fear of getting infected and unavailability of vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishna Mishra
- Department of Community Medicine, Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences, Odisha, India,Corresponding author. Department of Community Medicine, Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences, Patia, Odisha, India
| | - Ipsa Mohapatra
- Department of Community Medicine, Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences, Odisha, India
| | | | - Smriti Madhusikta
- Department of Community Medicine, Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences, Odisha, India
| | - Pragyan Parimita
- Department of Community Medicine, Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences, Odisha, India
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Perceptions of Parents on Management of Food Allergy in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Saudi Arabia. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 10:children10010048. [PMID: 36670599 PMCID: PMC9856587 DOI: 10.3390/children10010048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Food allergy is one of the most serious health concerns spread across the globe. Its awareness and management are undervalued, especially in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The aim of this study is to explore the perception of parents of autistic children from Saudi Arabia on the prevalence, knowledge, awareness and management of food allergens. METHODS A cross-sectional exploratory self-administrated online survey was conducted in Saudi Arabia, where 125 parents of autistic children voluntarily took part in the survey from April to August 2022. RESULTS This study indicates that less than one-fourth of autistic children suffering from food allergies, while most of them are allergic to proteins mainly. Examination of the knowledge level of these parents regarding food allergies, depending upon the score of correct answers given by them, showed that a majority of parents had a moderate level of knowledge on food allergy. Even though there was awareness about food allergens, the use of medical interventions was not employed much. However, the parents were mindful of food labeling and found it to be useful in avoiding known food allergies. Mediating effects of food allergy were observed in the relationship between food allergy knowledge and its management. Moreover, the source of information about food allergies was also found to be significantly associated with the knowledge score and the level of awareness regarding food allergies. This study provides evidence that there is a significant influence of food allergy knowledge of parents of autistic children on its management among autistic children from Saudi Arabia, with awareness of food allergies as the mediator. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study where the prevalence, knowledge and management, along with awareness of food allergy, has been empirically explored through the perception of parents of autistic children.
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Alabadi M, Alashoor T, Aldawood O, Qanbar Z, Aldawood Z. Exploring Critical Factors Associated with Completion of Childhood Immunisation in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10122147. [PMID: 36560557 PMCID: PMC9784112 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10122147] [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: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: surveillance data from the Saudi Ministry of Health shows that the Kingdom’s large-scale immunisation programme has significantly reduced the mortality and morbidity of the target diseases among children. In this study, we review relevant literature and test a number of hypotheses related to the association between demographic, socio-economic, clinic-related, and parents-related variables and completion of childhood immunisation. In doing so, this study identifies critical factors associated with completion of childhood immunisation and presents important implications to healthcare practitioners, particularly in Saudi Arabia; (2) Literature review: a systematic literature review was conducted to understand what is currently published concerning parents’ immunisation compliance in Saudi Arabia and the factors associated with immunisation compliance. (3) Methods: from March to May 2022, an online survey was administered to parents attending one of the 27 primary health care (PHC) centres in Qatif. Data from parents (n = 353) were analysed using exploratory factor analysis, correlation, and a series of OLS and logistic regression models; (4) Results: parental (child) age was negatively (positively) associated with the completion status of childhood immunisation (both p < 0.05). Parents with positive attitudes, social norms, perceptions towards immunisation, and those working in private companies were more likely to immunise their children (all p < 0.05). Conversely, living in an apartment building, walking to PHCs, waiting longer at PHCs, and having higher knowledge of immunisation were negatively associated with the completion of childhood immunisation (all p < 0.05); (5) Conclusions: several factors that positively or negatively influence the completion of childhood immunisation have been identified. Future studies may investigate the causal link between these factors and parental decision-making regarding childhood immunisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwa Alabadi
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Tawfiq Alashoor
- Department of Digitalization, Copenhagen Business School, Howitzvej 60, 2000 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Omran Aldawood
- Primary Health Care Division, Ministry of Health, Riyadh 12271, Saudi Arabia
| | - Zainab Qanbar
- Primary Health Care Division of Qatif City, General Directorate of Health Affairs in the Eastern Region, Ministry of Health, Qatif 31911, Saudi Arabia
| | - Zakariya Aldawood
- Primary Health Care Division of Qatif City, General Directorate of Health Affairs in the Eastern Region, Ministry of Health, Qatif 31911, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-451287443
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Osei I, Sarwar G, Hossain I, Sonko K, Ceesay L, Baldeh B, Secka E, Mackenzie GA. Attendance and vaccination at immunization clinics in rural Gambia before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Vaccine 2022; 40:6367-6373. [PMID: 36180374 PMCID: PMC9468317 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2022.09.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the delivery of essential health services, such as routine immunization. We assessed the impact of the pandemic on the uptake of routine immunization in rural Gambia. METHODS We collected real-time vaccine administration data in the Basse and Fuladu West Health & Demographic Surveillance Systems from September 01, 2019, to December 31, 2020. We assessed the monthly number of Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) clinic attendances and vaccines administered, comparing data during the baseline period (September 01, 2019-March 31, 2020), COVID-19 interruption period (April 01-June 30, 2020), initial recovery period (Jul 01-September 30, 2020) and the late recovery period (October 01-December 31, 2020). RESULTS Compared to the baseline period, there was an overall average monthly decline of 13.4% in EPI attendance and 38.3% reduction in average monthly immunizations during the interruption period. This decrease was particularly noticeable for Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) (47.2%), birth dose hepatitis B (Hep B) (46.9%), 1st dose pentavalent (Penta1) (43.1%), 1st dose pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV1) (42.4%), and measles vaccines (15.5%). Comparing the late recovery to baseline period, average monthly EPI attendance was 5.3% higher, with 1.9% increase in average monthly immunizations. Monthly immunizations for BCG were 3.0% greater, 2.5% greater for Hep B, 22.7% greater for oral polio vaccine (OPV1), 2.0% less for Penta1, 19.2% less for Penta2, and 2.6% less for PCV1. CONCLUSION The reduced EPI attendance during the pandemic interruption period lasted only 3 months. Significant recovery in EPI attendance occurred during the late recovery period, while rates of monthly immunization returned to pre-pandemic levels for most antigens. EPI programmes should implement strategies to deliver missed antigens when infants do present to EPI clinics, aware that missed doses may be age dependent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaac Osei
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Fajara, The Gambia; Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
| | - Golam Sarwar
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Fajara, The Gambia
| | - Ilias Hossain
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Fajara, The Gambia
| | - Kemo Sonko
- Regional Health Directorate, Upper River Region, Ministry of Health, Basse, The Gambia
| | - Lamin Ceesay
- Regional Health Directorate, Upper River Region, Ministry of Health, Basse, The Gambia
| | - Bubacarr Baldeh
- Regional Health Directorate, Central River Region, Ministry of Health, Bansang, The Gambia
| | - Ebba Secka
- Regional Health Directorate, Central River Region, Ministry of Health, Bansang, The Gambia
| | - Grant A Mackenzie
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Fajara, The Gambia; Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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Arcos González P, Zabibdullah A, Cernuda Martínez J, Castro Delgado R. Exploring COVID-19 pandemic side effects: The case of routine immunization in Afghanistan. J Glob Health 2022; 12:03039. [PMID: 35861477 PMCID: PMC9302038 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.12.03039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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22
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Routine Immunization Programs for Children during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Ecuador, 2020-Hidden Effects, Predictable Consequences. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10060857. [PMID: 35746465 PMCID: PMC9227181 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10060857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a global disruption of several services, including routine immunizations. This effect has been described in several countries, but there are few detailed studies in Latin America and no reports in Ecuador. Therefore, this work aims to quantify the reduction in routine immunizations for infants during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic in Ecuador. 2018, 2019, and 2020 data were obtained from the Ministry of Health, Ecuador. The number of doses and the extent of immunization coverage was descriptively compared for four vaccines: rotavirus (ROTA), poliovirus (PV), pneumococcal (PCV), and pentavalent (PENTA) vaccines. There was no significant difference in doses applied during the 2018 and 2019 years. However, a significant (p < 0.05) drop of 137,000 delivered doses was observed in 2020 compared to the pre-pandemic years. Reductions in the percentage of coverage were more pronounced for the PENTA vaccine (17.7%), followed by PV (16.4%), ROTA (12%), and PCV vaccines (10.7%). Spatial analysis shows a severe impact on vaccination coverage on provinces from the Coast and Highland regions of the country. The pandemic has significantly impacted the immunization programs for infants across Ecuador. This retrospective analysis shows an urgent need to protect vulnerable zones and populations during public health emergencies.
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Abid Z, Castro Delgado R, Cernuda Martinez JA, Arcos González P. The Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdown on Routine Immunization in the Province of Laghman, Afghanistan. Risk Manag Healthc Policy 2022; 15:901-908. [PMID: 35547645 PMCID: PMC9084504 DOI: 10.2147/rmhp.s352567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic, declared by the World Health Organization as a public health international emergency concern in March 2020, has caused serious impacts on individuals, families, communities, and societies across the globe. The COVID-19 pandemic not only disrupted the health systems and the economy, but also significantly impacted routine immunization programs. Aim To study the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown on the routine immunization coverage program in the province of Laghman, Afghanistan. Methods A comparative cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted to understand the impact of COVID-19 on routine childhood immunization during the study period. Secondary data was used from the Ministry of Health from April to July 2020 and compared with the historical data of the same period in 2019. Student t-test was used to test the association between the mean changes in the daily immunization coverage. A p-value<0.05 was considered as statistically significant with 95% confidence interval. Results There was a 21.4% significant (p<0.01) decline in the total immunization coverage during April–July 2020 compared to April–July 2019. This reduction was diverse across all districts and all vaccine antigens. The most affected district was Alingar, and the most affected vaccines were measles and OPV4, with 28% declines, followed by PCV3 at 26%, and DPT3, IPV, OPV3, PCV2 and rotavirus at 23%. The outreach vaccination coverage declined by 56.1% compared to the fixed, at 13.4%. Conclusion The COVID-19 pandemic seriously affected the routine immunization in Afghanistan. On average, 325 children per day missed out on a lifesaving vaccine in Laghman province which put them at risk of getting preventable diseases. To provide access to routine immunization during pandemics, the study suggests a set of customized interventions to strengthen and sustain routine immunization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zabihulah Abid
- Unit for Research in Emergency and Disaster, Department of Medicine, University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Rafael Castro Delgado
- Unit for Research in Emergency and Disaster, Department of Medicine, University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
| | | | - Pedro Arcos González
- Unit for Research in Emergency and Disaster, Department of Medicine, University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
- Correspondence: Pedro Arcos González, Unit for Research in Emergency and Disaster, Faculty of Medicine, 7th Floor, Campus del Cristo, Oviedo, 33006, Spain, Tel +34 985103545, Email
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It is complicated: Potential short- and long-term impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on antimicrobial resistance—An expert review. ANTIMICROBIAL STEWARDSHIP & HEALTHCARE EPIDEMIOLOGY 2022; 2:e27. [PMID: 36310817 PMCID: PMC9614949 DOI: 10.1017/ash.2022.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
As of December 2021, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has claimed millions of deaths and caused disruptions in health systems around the world. The short- and long-term effects of COVID-19 on antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which was already a global threat before the pandemic, are manifold and complex. In this expert review, we summarize how COVID-19 might be affecting AMR in the short term (by influencing the key determinants antibiotic use, infection control practices and international/local mobility) and which additional factors might play a role in the long term. Whereas reduced outpatient antibiotic use in high-income countries, increased awareness for hand hygiene, and reduced mobility have likely mitigated the emergence and spread of AMR in the short term, factors such as overuse of antibiotics in COVID-19 patients, shortage of personal protective equipment, lack of qualified healthcare staff, and patient overcrowding have presumably facilitated its propagation. Unsurprisingly, international and national AMR surveillance data for 2020 show ambiguous trends. Although disruptions in antibiotic stewardship programs, AMR surveillance and research might promote the spread of AMR, other developments could prove beneficial to the cause in the long term. These factors include the increased public awareness for infectious diseases and infection control issues, the strengthening of the One Health perspective as outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the unprecedented number of international research collaborations and platforms. These factors could even serve as leverage and provide opportunities to better combat AMR in the future.
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SeyedAlinaghi S, Karimi A, Mojdeganlou H, Alilou S, Mirghaderi SP, Noori T, Shamsabadi A, Dadras O, Vahedi F, Mohammadi P, Shojaei A, Mahdiabadi S, Janfaza N, Keshavarzpoor Lonbar A, Mehraeen E, Sabatier J. Impact of
COVID
‐19 pandemic on routine vaccination coverage of children and adolescents: A systematic review. Health Sci Rep 2022; 5:e00516. [PMID: 35224217 PMCID: PMC8855492 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Scientists and healthcare workers have expressed their concerns on the impacts of the COVID‐19 pandemic on vaccination coverage in children and adolescents. Therefore, we aimed to systematically review the studies addressing this issue worldwide. Methods We conducted a systematic search of relevant studies using the keywords on databases of PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane on May 22, 2021. The identified records were imported into EndNote software and underwent a two‐phase screening process consisting of title/abstract and full‐text screenings against inclusion criteria. The data of the included studies were summarized into a table and the findings were analyzed in a systematic approach. Results From 26 eligible studies, 21 studies demonstrated decreased vaccination rates in the children during the COVID‐19 pandemic, while three studies found increased or no significant changes only in influenza vaccination. The two remaining studies from Brazil and Sweden also showed no significant changes in vaccination rates in the children during the pandemic. Conclusion Most of the reports worldwide reported a decline or delay in vaccination at the time of the COVID‐19 pandemic. A sustained catch‐up program seems to be necessary, especially in low‐income countries, to avoid any vaccine dose missing. Facilitating the vaccination process is recommended, such as decreasing the waiting time for vaccination at the health center, addressing the fear and concerns related to COVID infection for parents, and enhancing vaccine availability, and promoting access in remote areas. Countries should ensure proper vaccination to prevent future pandemics related to vaccine‐preventable diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- SeyedAhmad SeyedAlinaghi
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High‐Risk Behaviors Tehran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
| | - Amirali Karimi
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
| | | | - Sanam Alilou
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
| | | | - Tayebeh Noori
- Department of Health Information Technology Zabol University of Medical Sciences Zabol Iran
| | - Ahmadreza Shamsabadi
- Department of Health Information Technology Esfarayen Faculty of Medical Sciences Esfarayen Iran
| | - Omid Dadras
- School of Public Health Walailak University Nakhon Si Thammarat Thailand
| | - Farzin Vahedi
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
| | - Parsa Mohammadi
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
| | - Alireza Shojaei
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High‐Risk Behaviors Tehran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
| | - Sara Mahdiabadi
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
| | - Nazanin Janfaza
- Internal Medicine Department, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, School of Medicine Tehran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
| | | | - Esmaeil Mehraeen
- Department of Health Information Technology Khalkhal University of Medical Sciences Khalkhal Iran
| | - Jean‐Marc Sabatier
- Université Aix‐Marseille, Institut de Neuro‐physiopathologie (INP) Marseille Cedex France
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Shapiro GK, Gottfredson N, Leask J, Wiley K, Ganter-Restrepo FE, Jones SP, Menning L, Brewer NT. COVID-19 and missed or delayed vaccination in 26 middle- and high-income countries: An observational survey. Vaccine 2022; 40:945-952. [PMID: 35039193 PMCID: PMC8687753 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2021.12.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted vaccination services and raised the risk of a global resurgence of preventable diseases. We assessed the extent of and reasons for missed or delayed vaccinations (hereafter 'missed') in middle- and high-income countries in the early months of the pandemic. METHODS From May to June 2020, participants completed an online survey on missed vaccination. Analyses separated missed childhood and adult vaccination in middle-and high-income countries. RESULTS Respondents were 28,429 adults from 26 middle- and high-income countries. Overall, 9% of households had missed a vaccine, and 13% were unsure. More households in middle- than high-income countries reported missed childhood vaccination (7.6% vs. 3.0%) and missed adult vaccination (9.6% vs. 3.4%, both p < .05). Correlates of missed childhood vaccination in middle-income countries included COVID-19 risk factors (respiratory and cardiovascular diseases), younger age, male sex, employment, psychological distress, larger household size, and more children. In high-income countries, correlates of missed childhood vaccination also included immunosuppressive conditions, but did not include sex or household size. Fewer correlates were associated with missed adult vaccination other than COVID-19 risk factors and psychological distress. Common reasons for missed vaccinations were worry about getting COVID-19 at the vaccination clinic (15%) or when leaving the house (11%). Other reasons included no healthcare provider recommendation, clinic closure, and wanting to save services for others. INTERPRETATION Missed vaccination was common and more prevalent in middle- than high-income countries. Missed vaccination could be mitigated by emphasizing COVID-19 safety measures in vaccination clinics, ensuring free and accessible immunization, and clear healthcare provider recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilla K. Shapiro
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada,Corresponding author
| | - Nisha Gottfredson
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Julie Leask
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia,Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kerrie Wiley
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Sarah P. Jones
- Institute of Global Health Innovation, Imperial College London, St Mary’s Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lisa Menning
- Department of Immunization, Vaccines and Biologicals, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Noel T. Brewer
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA,Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
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Connolly E, Boley EJ, Fejfar DL, Varney PF, Aron MB, Fulcher IR, Lambert W, Ndayizigiye M, Law MR, Mugunga JC, Hedt-Gauthier B. Childhood immunization during the COVID-19 pandemic: experiences in Haiti, Lesotho, Liberia and Malawi. Bull World Health Organ 2022; 100:115-126C. [PMID: 35125536 PMCID: PMC8795848 DOI: 10.2471/blt.21.286774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To examine changes in vaccination of children younger than 1 year during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic (March 2020–August 2021) in Haiti, Lesotho, Liberia and Malawi. Methods We used data from health management information systems on vaccination of children aged 12 months or younger in districts supported by Partners In Health. We used data from January 2016 to February 2020 and a linear model with negative binomial distribution to estimate the expected immunization counts for March 2020–August 2021 with 95% prediction intervals, assuming no pandemic. We compared these expected levels with observed values and estimated the immunization deficits or excesses during the pandemic months. Findings Baseline vaccination counts varied substantially by country, with Lesotho having the lowest count and Haiti the highest. We observed declines in vaccination administration early in the COVID-19 pandemic in Haiti, Lesotho and Liberia. Continued declines largely corresponded to high rates of COVID-19 infection and discrete stock-outs. By August 2021, vaccination levels had returned to close to or above expected levels in Haiti, Liberia and Lesotho; in Malawi levels remained below expected. Conclusion Patterns of childhood immunization coverage varied by country over the course of the pandemic, with significantly lower than expected vaccination levels seen in one country during subsequent COVID-19 waves. Governments and health-care stakeholders should monitor vaccine coverage closely and consider interventions, such as community outreach, to avoid or combat the disruptions in childhood vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Isabel R Fulcher
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | | | | | - Michael R Law
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | - Bethany Hedt-Gauthier
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
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28
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Takahashi K. So many situations, so many values-Understanding the complicated situations against COVID-19 issues. Pediatr Int 2022; 64:e15122. [PMID: 35771064 PMCID: PMC9350187 DOI: 10.1111/ped.15122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Kenzo Takahashi
- Teikyo University Graduate School of Public Health, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo, Japan
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29
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Sabri M, Khesro N, Sami R. The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on routine childhood immunization in Baghdad/Al-Karkh. MUSTANSIRIYA MEDICAL JOURNAL 2022. [DOI: 10.4103/mj.mj_33_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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30
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Abu-rish EY, Bustanji Y, Abusal K. Nationwide Routine Childhood Vaccination Coverage During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Jordan: Current Situation, Reasons, and Predictors of Vaccination. Int J Clin Pract 2022; 2022:7918604. [PMID: 35685494 PMCID: PMC9159169 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7918604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The healthcare system in Jordan faced substantial burden during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic including disruption of routine childhood vaccination services. AIMS We sought, for the first time, to describe the impact of the 2020 pandemic on vaccination coverage of Jordanian children in Jordan and to identify the key contributing factors. METHODS Nationwide vaccination rates were retrieved from the electronic records at the Ministry of Health (2018-2020) enrolling crude births of 220,057 Jordanian children during 2020. Records of doses administered were compared for each month of 2020 with the baseline of 2018-2019. A cross-sectional survey (March-August 2021) was also conducted enrolling a convenient sample of adults aged ≥18 who were Jordanian caregivers for vaccine-eligible children (0-23 months) between 1 January 2020 and the date of the interview. The survey aimed to address caregivers' adherence to routine vaccination during 2020-2021 and to describe the determinants of the current and future adherence to vaccination where multiple logistic regression model was utilized. RESULTS The electronic records revealed a significant decline in vaccination coverage during 2020. The greatest decline was observed during the lockdown period from 21 March 2020 to 21 April 2020 (32.4%-46.8%) followed by the decline observed by the entry of the first wave during September-October 2020 (18.4%-22.8%). A drop of 14-16% was observed for the vaccines recommended under the age of 12 months and of 6-7% for those recommended in 1-2-year-old children. The yearly coverage rates for measles-1 (at 9 months), 2 (at 12 months as part of measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine), and 3 (at 18 months as part of MMR) were 76%, 90%, and 87%, respectively, and for hexavalent-1, 2, and 3 were 78%, 78%, and 77%, respectively. The results of the survey revealed that the main reason for vaccination delay for at least 1 month from the recommended administration time was the lockdown, followed by child illness and smart lockdowns (regional lockdown/health center closure). Vaccination delay was less likely to be observed in children aged ≥12 months (P value < 0.001; OR: 0.18; CI: 0.11-0.29) or children with chronic diseases (P value < 0.05; OR: 0.5; CI: 0.33-0.88). CONCLUSION The current study demonstrates a decline in vaccination coverage of Jordanian children during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. It is important to formulate future strategies to promote catch-up vaccination and to avoid future backsliding of vaccination rates during further waves of the COVID-19 pandemic or other pandemics. These include improving health services, allaying caregivers' concerns about contracting COVID-19, and arranging vaccination campaigns outside health centers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman Y. Abu-rish
- Department of Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Yasser Bustanji
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, UAE
- Hamdi Mango Center for Scientific Research, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Kamel Abusal
- Department of Vaccination, Communicable Disease Directorate, Ministry of Health, Amman, Jordan
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COVID-19 Impact on Disparity in Childhood Immunization in Low- and Middle-Income Countries Through the Lens of Historical Pandemics. CURRENT TROPICAL MEDICINE REPORTS 2022; 9:225-233. [PMID: 36569790 PMCID: PMC9760533 DOI: 10.1007/s40475-022-00273-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review The COVID-19 pandemic, since 2020, has affected health care services and access globally. Although the entire impact of COVID-19 pandemic on existing global public health is yet to be fully seen, the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on global childhood immunization programs is of particular importance. Recent Findings Disruptions to service delivery due to lockdowns, challenges in vaccination programs, vaccine misinformation and hesitancy, and political and social economic inequalities all posed a threat to existing childhood immunization programs. These potential threats were especially critical in LMIC where childhood immunization programs tend to experience suboptimal implementation. Summary This review provides an overview of childhood immunizations and discusses past pandemics particularly in LMIC, factors contributing to disparities in childhood immunizations, and reviews potential lessons to be learned from past pandemics. Vaccine hesitancy, social determinants of health, and best practices to help lessen the pandemic's influence are also further elaborated. To address current challenges that hindered the progress made in prevention of childhood illnesses through vaccination campaigns and increased vaccine availability, lessons learned through best practices explored from past pandemics must be examined to mitigate impact of COVID-19 on childhood immunization and in turn conserve health and improve economic well-being of children especially in LMIC.
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Ferreira Caceres MM, Sosa JP, Lawrence JA, Sestacovschi C, Tidd-Johnson A, Rasool MHUI, Gadamidi VK, Ozair S, Pandav K, Cuevas-Lou C, Parrish M, Rodriguez I, Fernandez JP. The impact of misinformation on the COVID-19 pandemic. AIMS Public Health 2022; 9:262-277. [PMID: 35634019 PMCID: PMC9114791 DOI: 10.3934/publichealth.2022018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the inception of the current pandemic, COVID-19 related misinformation has played a role in defaulting control of the situation. It has become evident that the internet, social media, and other communication outlets with readily available data have contributed to the dissemination and availability of misleading information. It has perpetuated beliefs that led to vaccine avoidance, mask refusal, and utilization of medications with insignificant scientific data, ultimately contributing to increased morbidity. Undoubtedly, misinformation has become a challenge and a burden to individual health, public health, and governments globally. Our review article aims at providing an overview and summary regarding the role of media, other information outlets, and their impact on the pandemic. The goal of this article is to increase awareness of the negative impact of misinformation on the pandemic. In addition, we discuss a few recommendations that could aid in decreasing this burden, as preventing the conception and dissemination of misinformation is essential.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Juan Pablo Sosa
- Division of Research & Academic Affairs, Larkin Community Hospital, South Miami, Florida, USA
- * Correspondence: ; Tel: +16463215470
| | - Jannel A Lawrence
- Division of Research & Academic Affairs, Larkin Community Hospital, South Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Cristina Sestacovschi
- Division of Research & Academic Affairs, Larkin Community Hospital, South Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Atiyah Tidd-Johnson
- Division of Research & Academic Affairs, Larkin Community Hospital, South Miami, Florida, USA
- Department of Medicine, American University of Antigua, Coolidge, Antigua
| | | | - Vinay Kumar Gadamidi
- Division of Research & Academic Affairs, Larkin Community Hospital, South Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Saleha Ozair
- Division of Research & Academic Affairs, Larkin Community Hospital, South Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Krunal Pandav
- Division of Research & Academic Affairs, Larkin Community Hospital, South Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Claudia Cuevas-Lou
- Family Medicine, Larkin Community Hospital Palm Springs Campus, Hialeah, Florida, USA
| | - Matthew Parrish
- Family Medicine, Larkin Community Hospital Palm Springs Campus, Hialeah, Florida, USA
| | - Ivan Rodriguez
- Division of Research & Academic Affairs, Larkin Community Hospital, South Miami, Florida, USA
- Family Medicine, Larkin Community Hospital South Campus, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Javier Perez Fernandez
- Division of Research & Academic Affairs, Larkin Community Hospital, South Miami, Florida, USA
- Pulmonary Disease and Critical Care Medicine, Larkin Community Hospital Palm Springs Campus, Hilaeah, Florida, USA
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33
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Ota MOC, Badur S, Romano-Mazzotti L, Friedland LR. Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on routine immunization. Ann Med 2021; 53:2286-2297. [PMID: 34854789 PMCID: PMC8648038 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2021.2009128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The current COVID-19 global pandemic continues to impact healthcare services beyond those directly related to the management of SARS-CoV-2 transmission and disease. We reviewed the published literature to assess the pandemic impact on existing global immunization activities and how the impact may be addressed. Widespread global disruption in routine childhood immunization has impacted a majority of regions and countries, especially in the initial pandemic phases. While data indicate subsequent recovery in immunization rates, a substantial number of vulnerable people remain unvaccinated. The downstream impact may be even greater in resource-limited settings and economically poorer populations, and consequently there are growing concerns around the resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases, particularly measles. Guidance on how to address immunization deficits are available and continue to evolve, emphasizing the importance of maintaining and restoring routine immunization and necessary mass vaccination campaigns during and after pandemics. In this, collaboration between a broad range of stakeholders (governments, industry, healthcare decision-makers and frontline healthcare professionals) and clear communication and engagement with the public can help achieve these goals.Key messagesThe COVID-19 pandemic has a substantial impact on essential immunization activities.Disruption to mass vaccination campaigns increase risk of VPD resurgence.Catch-up campaigns are necessary to limit existing shortfalls in vaccine uptake.Guidance to mitigate these effects continues to evolve.
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34
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Lazarus JV, Mark HE, Sanai FM, Hashim A, Farghaly M, Alqahtani SA, Al-Awadhi S. Gulf Cooperation Council states: On the brink of HBV elimination. Liver Int 2021; 41:2805-2808. [PMID: 34562293 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey V Lazarus
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,University of Barcelona, Faculty of Medicine, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Henry E Mark
- EASL International Liver Foundation, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Faisal M Sanai
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Medicine, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | - Saleh A Alqahtani
- Liver Transplant Center, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, John Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Liao Q, Dong M, Yuan J, Lam WWT, Cowling BJ, So HC, Ip DKM. A Mixed-Methods Study to Evaluate Elementary School Staff's Acceptability, Delivery Challenges, and Communication Regarding the Implementation of School-Located Influenza Vaccination Program in Hong Kong. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9101175. [PMID: 34696283 PMCID: PMC8540161 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9101175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This was a mixed-methods study comprising a questionnaire-based survey, a qualitative study, and analysis of school newsletters to evaluate elementary school staff's acceptability, delivery challenges and communication about school-located influenza vaccination program (SIVP) in Hong Kong. We found that school staff with lower intention to implement SIVP perceived greater logistical difficulties in arranging SIVP. Challenges regarding program delivery included schools' limited infrastructure, the burden of paperwork, the fear of being overwhelmed by multiple school-based vaccination schedules, lacking confidence in communicating with parents about influenza vaccines, and the difficulties in managing vaccination-related anxiety among children with intellectual disability. School staff were generally passive in communicating with parents and students about influenza vaccines. We also found that schools may use the school newsletters as a substitute of the formal informed consent forms. Good partnerships among government, service providers and schools should be established to minimize the burden of paperwork for school staff, facilitate early planning of SIVP, and support schools with limited infrastructure and the vaccination of children with intellectual disabilities. Training is needed to enhance school staff's confidence in communicating with parents and students about influenza vaccines and improve information delivery to support parents' informed decisions for children's vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuyan Liao
- Division of Behavioural Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (M.D.); (J.Y.); (W.W.T.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +852-3917-9289; Fax: +852-2855-9528
| | - Meihong Dong
- Division of Behavioural Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (M.D.); (J.Y.); (W.W.T.L.)
| | - Jiehu Yuan
- Division of Behavioural Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (M.D.); (J.Y.); (W.W.T.L.)
| | - Wendy Wing Tak Lam
- Division of Behavioural Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (M.D.); (J.Y.); (W.W.T.L.)
| | - Benjamin J. Cowling
- Center for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Control Collaborating with World Health Organization, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (B.J.C.); (H.C.S.); (D.K.M.I.)
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health, Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hau Chi So
- Center for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Control Collaborating with World Health Organization, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (B.J.C.); (H.C.S.); (D.K.M.I.)
| | - Dennis Kai Ming Ip
- Center for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Control Collaborating with World Health Organization, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (B.J.C.); (H.C.S.); (D.K.M.I.)
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Khatiwada AP, Maskey S, Shrestha N, Shrestha S, Khanal S, Kc B, Paudyal V. Impact of the first phase of COVID-19 pandemic on childhood routine immunisation services in Nepal: a qualitative study on the perspectives of service providers and users. J Pharm Policy Pract 2021; 14:79. [PMID: 34587997 PMCID: PMC8479266 DOI: 10.1186/s40545-021-00366-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately affected all essential healthcare services delivery in low-resource settings. This study aimed to explore the challenges and experiences of providers and users of childhood immunisation services in Nepal during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with childhood immunisation service providers and users (i.e., parents of children) from Kathmandu valley, Nepal. All interviews were conducted through phone or internet-based tools, such as Zoom, WhatsApp, and messenger. All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using theme-based content analysis in an Excel spreadsheet. Results A total of 15 participants (n = 7 service providers and n = 8 service users) participated. Six themes were identified, namely: (1) impact of COVID-19 and lockdown on childhood immunisation services; (2) motivation and resilience for childhood immunisation; (3) Biosafety practices and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) availability during the COVID-19 pandemic; (4) service adjustments and guidelines during pandemic; (5) availability of vaccines; and (6) immunisation program resilience in view of COVID-19. Service providers mentioned facing disruptions in services and some parents had decided to delay scheduled immunisation. However, most service providers showed determinations to deliver the services with high morale, while most service users reported taking their children for immunisation. Families migrating from urban to rural areas during the pandemic led to service providers having no means to confirm complete immunisation of migrating children. Service providers also experienced lack of adequate guidance to deal with the pandemic and personal protective equipment to protect themselves and service users. Conclusion Despite experiencing disruptions in childhood immunisation service due to the COVID-19 pandemic, service users and providers were determined to vaccinate the children. There is an urgent need for effective preparedness plans to be in place to address the observed barriers and to ensure resilient immunisation services during ongoing and future pandemics. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40545-021-00366-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmita Priyadarshini Khatiwada
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Health Service Research, Nepal Health Research and Innovation Foundation, Lalitpur, Nepal.
| | - Smriti Maskey
- University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, USA.
| | - Nistha Shrestha
- Department of Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Sunil Shrestha
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Health Service Research, Nepal Health Research and Innovation Foundation, Lalitpur, Nepal.
| | - Saval Khanal
- Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Bhuvan Kc
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, 47500, Bandar Sunway, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Vibhu Paudyal
- School of Pharmacy, Institute of Clinical Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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Sell H, Assi A, Driedger SM, Dubé È, Gagneur A, Meyer SB, Robinson J, Sadarangani M, Tunis M, MacDonald SE. Continuity of routine immunization programs in Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic. Vaccine 2021; 39:5532-5537. [PMID: 34426028 PMCID: PMC8439618 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2021.08.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In Canada, the COVID-19 pandemic has interrupted many routine health services, placed additional strain on the health care system, and resulted in many Canadians being either unable or unwilling to attend routine immunization appointments. We sought to capture and synthesize information about changes to routine immunization programs in response to the pandemic and plans to catch-up any missed immunizations. METHODS Provincial/territorial (P/T) public health leaders were interviewed via teleconference between August-October 2020 to collect information on the following topics: how routine immunization delivery was affected during and after initial lockdown periods, plans to catch-up missed doses, and major challenges and achievements in continuing routine immunization programs. Data were coded and categorized according to common responses and descriptive analysis was performed. RESULTS Interviews occurred with participants from 11 of 13 P/Ts. School immunization programs were reported to be most negatively affected by the pandemic (n = 9). In the early pandemic period, infant, preschool, and maternal/prenatal programs were prioritized, with most P/Ts continuing these services with adaptations for COVID-19. After the initial lockdown period, all routine programs were continuing with adaptations in most P/Ts. Infant, preschool, and school programs were most often targeted for catch-up through measures such as appointment rebooking and making additional clinics and/or providers available. Major challenges included resource limitations (e.g., staff shortages, PPE shortages, limited infrastructure) (n = 11), public health restrictions (n = 8), and public hesitancy to attend appointments (n = 5). CONCLUSIONS Canadian routine immunization programs faced some disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly the school, adult, and older adult programs. Further research is needed to determine the measurable impact of the pandemic on routine vaccine coverage levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Sell
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada; Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ali Assi
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - S Michelle Driedger
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Ève Dubé
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Arnaud Gagneur
- Département de pédiatrie, Université de Sherbrooke, Centre de Recherche du CHUS, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Samantha B Meyer
- School of Public Health and Health Systems, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Joan Robinson
- Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Matthew Tunis
- Centre for Immunization and Respiratory Infectious Diseases, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Baghdadi LR, Hassounah MM, Younis A, Al Suwaidan HI, Al Khalifah R. Caregivers' Sources of Information About Immunization as Predictors of Delayed Childhood Vaccinations in Saudi Arabia During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Questionnaire Study. Risk Manag Healthc Policy 2021; 14:3541-3550. [PMID: 34466043 PMCID: PMC8403080 DOI: 10.2147/rmhp.s312148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study compared the most used sources of information by caregivers for scheduled childhood vaccination in Saudi Arabia before and during the COVID-19 pandemic and examined the effect of this decision-making. Methods An electronic survey was administered to 577 caregivers of children aged ≤2 years residing in Saudi Arabia during the COVID-19 pandemic curfew. The sources of information on childhood vaccination considered by the caregivers and their influence on the caregivers’ decision to delay scheduled vaccination were assessed and statistically analyzed. Results Most participants (90.8%) were mothers aged 32.6 ± 5.7 years. Before the pandemic, most caregivers sought information about children’s vaccinations personally from the healthcare workers, or trustworthy sources, including the Ministry of Health (MOH), MOH call center 937, and MOH Sehha app. However, during the pandemic, there was a noticeable decrease in the searches for health information through professional consultations (in person and health websites) and a significant increase in the use of social media platforms. Twitter was the most used platform (29.9%) and the use of Snapchat was significantly higher during the lockdown period compared to its use before the pandemic (21.9% vs 17.2%, P < 0.001). The use of social media not only increased the level of fear among the caregivers but also had a negative effect on their decisions about children’s vaccinations. Searches on YouTube and Facebook particularly increased the odds of delaying vaccinations by 2.63 times (P = 0.008) and 3.66 times (P = 0.025), respectively. Conclusion During the pandemic, caregivers’ health-information seeking behavior was directed towards social media networking. In Saudi Arabia, YouTube and Facebook, in particular, played an important role in the caregivers’ decision-making about childhood vaccinations. The results of this survey provide valuable information on how to reach the Saudi population and launch an effective awareness campaign using the most commonly accessed and influential sources of information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leena R Baghdadi
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11362, Saudi Arabia
| | - Marwah M Hassounah
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11362, Saudi Arabia
| | - Afnan Younis
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11362, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hessah I Al Suwaidan
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11362, Saudi Arabia
| | - Reem Al Khalifah
- Paediatric Endocrinology Division, Paediatrics Department, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11362, Saudi Arabia
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Chiappini E, Parigi S, Galli L, Licari A, Brambilla I, Angela Tosca M, Ciprandi G, Marseglia G. Impact that the COVID-19 pandemic on routine childhood vaccinations and challenges ahead: A narrative review. Acta Paediatr 2021; 110:2529-2535. [PMID: 34028088 PMCID: PMC8222862 DOI: 10.1111/apa.15949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Aim To document the decline in vaccination coverage in the first months of 2020 as an indirect effect of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Methods We performed a literature review in medical databases. Overall, 143 articles were initially retrieved, out of which 48 were selected and included in the review. Results Our review retrieved similar data in many countries worldwide, and, globally, preliminary data from the first 4 months of 2020 indicate a decline in diphtheria‐tetanus‐pertussis coverage, generally considered the marker of vaccination coverage across countries. World Health Organization recommends maintaining vaccination services, prioritising primary series vaccinations especially for measles‐rubella or poliomyelitis, but it also lets each country decide whether to maintain the immunisation services evaluating the current epidemiology of vaccine‐preventable diseases and the COVID‐19 local transmission scenario. Successively, recovering of vaccinations should be planned. Moreover, during the pandemic, influenza vaccination should be promoted as a central public health measure. Conclusion Future challenges will be to maintain the vaccination programmes, especially in children younger than 2 years old and adolescents, to plan the recovery of vaccinations for subjects who postponed them during the lockdown, and to early identify any vaccine‐preventable disease outbreak.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Chiappini
- Paediatric Infectious Diseases Unit Department of Health Sciences Anna Meyer Children University Hospital Florence Italy
| | - Sara Parigi
- Paediatric Infectious Diseases Unit Department of Health Sciences Anna Meyer Children University Hospital Florence Italy
| | - Luisa Galli
- Paediatric Infectious Diseases Unit Department of Health Sciences Anna Meyer Children University Hospital Florence Italy
| | - Amelia Licari
- Department of Pediatrics Foundation IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo University of Pavia Pavia Italy
| | - Ilaria Brambilla
- Department of Pediatrics Foundation IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo University of Pavia Pavia Italy
| | | | | | - Gianluigi Marseglia
- Department of Pediatrics Foundation IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo University of Pavia Pavia Italy
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Lieneck C, Herzog B, Krips R. Analysis of Facilitators and Barriers to the Delivery of Routine Care during the COVID-19 Global Pandemic: A Systematic Review. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:healthcare9050528. [PMID: 34062813 PMCID: PMC8147259 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9050528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The delivery of routine health care during the COVID-19 global pandemic continues to be challenged as public health guidelines and other local/regional/state and other policies are enforced to help prevent the spread of the virus. The objective of this systematic review is to identify the facilitators and barriers affecting the delivery of routine health care services during the pandemic to provide a framework for future research. In total, 32 articles were identified for common themes surrounding facilitators of routine care during COVID-19. Identified constructed in the literature include enhanced education initiatives for parents/patients regarding routine vaccinations, an importance of routine vaccinations as compared to the risk of COVID-19 infection, an enhanced use of telehealth resources (including diagnostic imagery) and identified patient throughput/PPE initiatives. Reviewers identified the following barriers to the delivery of routine care: conservation of medical providers and PPE for non-routine (acute) care delivery needs, specific routine care services incongruent the telehealth care delivery methods, and job-loss/food insecurity. Review results can assist healthcare organizations with process-related challenges related to current and/or future delivery of routine care and support future research initiatives as the global pandemic continues.
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Kitano T, Aoki H. The incremental burden of invasive pneumococcal disease associated with a decline in childhood vaccination using a dynamic transmission model in Japan: A secondary impact of COVID-19. Comput Biol Med 2021; 133:104429. [PMID: 33930765 PMCID: PMC8065234 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2021.104429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has disrupted childhood vaccinations, including pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV). Evaluating the possible impact on the invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) incidence associated with a decline in childhood pneumococcal vaccination is important to advocate the PCV programs. Using a deterministic, dynamic transmission model, the differential incidence and burden of IPD in children younger than 5 years in Japan were estimated between the rapid vaccination recovery (January 2021) and the delayed vaccination recovery (April 2022) scenarios for the next 10 years. In our model, the IPD incidence was reduced from 11.9/100,000 in 2019 to 6.3/100,000 in 2020, caused by a reduced transmission rate due to the COVID-19 mitigation measures. Assuming a recovery in the transmission rate in 2022 April, the incidence of IPD was estimated to increase with maximal incidence of 12.1 and 13.1/100,000 children under 5 years in the rapid and the delayed vaccination recovery scenarios. The difference in the total IPD incidence between these two scenarios was primarily driven by vaccine serotypes IPD incidence. The difference of incidence was not observed between the two scenarios after 2025. The persistent decline in childhood pneumococcal vaccination rates due to the impact of COVID-19 might lead to an increased IPD incidence and an incremental disease burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taito Kitano
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, 555 University Ave, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8, Canada.
| | - Hirosato Aoki
- Department of Neonatology, Kanagawa Children's Medical Center, 2-138-4 Mutsukawa, Minami-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 232-8555, Japan
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Baghdadi LR, Younis A, Al Suwaidan HI, Hassounah MM, Al Khalifah R. Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdown on Routine Childhood Immunization: A Saudi Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:692877. [PMID: 34222155 PMCID: PMC8249725 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.692877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Routine childhood immunization is the most cost-effective method to prevent infection and decrease childhood morbidity and mortality. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected access to health care in Saudi Arabia, including mandatory vaccinations for young children. We aimed to assess the prevalence of intentionally delayed vaccinations in children aged ≤ 2 years during the COVID-19 pandemic curfew in Saudi Arabia, its relation to the caregivers' fear of infection, and identifying factors affecting the caregivers' decision. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study using a self-administered survey that targeted primary caregivers of children aged ≤ 2 years residing in Saudi Arabia during the COVID-19 pandemic curfew (March 4-July 6, 2020). Results: We received responses from 577 caregivers, of whom 90.8% were mothers. The prevalence of intentional vaccination delay was 37%. Upon adjusting the potential confounders, the odds of delaying scheduled childhood vaccination because of COVID-19 pandemic fears were greater among caregivers with higher levels of fear (OR 1.10, 95% CI 1.02-1.11). Common reasons for delaying vaccinations were COVID-19 infection and prevention of exposure to COVID-19 cases. Conclusion: Intentional vaccination delay leaves young children vulnerable to preventable infectious diseases. Identifying these children and offering catch-up vaccinations reduces this risk. Campaigns to increase awareness about the dangers of delaying vaccine-preventable diseases must be promoted to caregivers in addition to the promotion of home vaccination services. In preparation for future pandemics, we recommend countries consider interventions to control the level of fear and anxiety provoked by the pandemics and media, and interventions for improved access to vaccinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leena R Baghdadi
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Afnan Younis
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hessah I Al Suwaidan
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Marwah M Hassounah
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Reem Al Khalifah
- Paediatric Endocrinology Division, Paediatrics Department, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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