Results for Development’s Post

📢 New insights from a study on childhood vaccination in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) reveal critical factors influencing immunization rates. 🔍 Despite efforts, around 20% of infants in the DRC haven't begun their routine immunization schedule. This study evaluated the roles of geospatial access to health facilities and caregiver perceptions of vaccines. 🌍 Key findings: High Accessibility: 88% of rural DRC households are within an hour’s walk to a health facility. Caregiver Perceptions: Negative or uncertain views on vaccines were strongly linked to zero-dose status, with odds ratios significantly higher (69.3) than the impact of travel time (1.3). 🚸 The takeaway? Improving geographic access is important, but enhancing caregiver demand and positive vaccine perceptions are crucial for boosting vaccination rates in rural DRC. #PublicHealth #Vaccination #Healthcare #DRC #Immunization #GlobalHealth #Research #ChildHealth https://lnkd.in/gKGkZ8EY

The global vaccination data that was released about two weeks ago highlights significant between-country variations in coverage which can be useful for systems learning in immunization programmes. Some countries in Africa are able to consistently sustain optimal vaccination coverage with three doses of diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis containing vaccine. If learning is institutionalized at supranational level, context-relevant best practices and lessons can be systematically transferred to low-performing countries to improve programme performance. Even within countries, transfer of knowledge between communities can also be very useful for strengthening vaccination efforts. Health systems that prioritize learning have a better chance of maximizing potentials for success. So, in this article, we proposed a model for building learning immunization systems: https://lnkd.in/dE-ypGhH

How tablets transformed mass vaccination in Ghana 📱 In 2021, Ghana launched its largest mass vaccination campaign, aimed at tackling COVID-19. With support from the R4D-led Health Systems Strengthening Accelerator, frontline health workers were trained to use tablets for real-time data collection, helping improve coordination and decision-making across regions. This innovation empowered health workers to better tailor their efforts and ensure a more effective vaccine delivery, strengthening Ghana’s health system and helping protect its population. 🇬🇭 🔗 Read more about how R4D and the Health Systems Strengthening Accelerator collaborated with the Ghana Health Service - Link in the comment! #HealthSystems #Vaccination #GhanaHealth #R4D

New work! The RT-VaMA initiative in Papua New Guinea enhances vaccination coverage and data management by using real-time monitoring tools to track immunization campaigns and improve decision-making in remote and resource-limited parts of the country. Ona provided the technical platform for real-time data collection, reporting and dashboard management, allowing health workers to track vaccination activities efficiently, streamline daily coverage reporting, vaccine stock monitoring and improve the overall effectiveness of vaccination monitoring. We also implemented a hybrid reporting model to accommodate technological limitations, enabling data submission via phone or WhatsApp. For this project, we used the Ona platforms InForm (Ona Data) and Akuko. Read UNICEF's RT-VaMA case study: https://lnkd.in/eG8rJfXM #UNICEF #immunization #akuko #onadata #vaccination

Strengthening systems for better outcomes!

Rise of zero-dose children's cohorts in our country (India). Despite a strong immunization infrastructure and reach, the numbers continue to increase. The current lacuna in India's immunization program must be addressed, especially in rural and unreached urban areas. To tackle these challenges, strategic interventions are crucial. Targeted efforts in rural and unreached urban areas are essential to ensure all children receive the necessary vaccinations. Implementing community engagement programs and improving accessibility to healthcare facilities can greatly impact immunization rates. In addition, leveraging digital tools can revolutionize the way we approach these issues. By utilizing technology for tracking and monitoring vaccinations, we can streamline processes and ensure timely interventions. Digital platforms can also be used to educate communities about the importance of immunization and dispel any myths or misinformation. In conclusion, addressing the rise of zero-dose children cohorts requires a multi-faceted approach. By strengthening the immunization program, focusing on rural and unreached urban areas, and harnessing the power of digital tools, we can make significant strides towards improving vaccination coverage and protecting the health of our nation's children. Let's work together to create a healthier and more resilient future for all. #PublicHealth #Immunization #DigitalHealth #HealthcareAccess #CommunityEngagement.

Measles vaccination coverage at 30% in some schools in Montreal. COVID led to disruption in vaccination services. Absence of measles led to absence of understanding its dangers. And now with the outbreaks, SSPE is being presented as a potential deadly aftermath. We need to be better at speaking with parents and motivate them in vaccinating their offspring. It is so important that the The Canadian Vaccination Evidence Resource and Exchange Centre (CANVax) is a project of the Canadian Public Health Association funded by the Public Health Agency of Canada to better initiate discussions with parents and get them to understand the importance of vaccination. A motivational series of interviews and questionnaire all doctors and nurses should be using… https://canvax.ca/miikovac

How can digital health tools transform large-scale vaccination campaigns? In 2017 and 2018, #Indonesia undertook a nationwide measles and rubella vaccination campaign that targeted over 67 million children. To support implementation and overcome challenges associated with paper-based reporting, UNICEF supported the Ministry of Health to deploy and use a #digitalhealth intervention, RapidPro, for real-time monitoring of the campaign. Health workers used their own mobile phones to send a text message at the end of each day of the campaign to report the number of children vaccinated against their targets. Dashboards updated in real-time enabled the Ministry of Health and development partners to use RapidPro to assess daily progress, identify areas at risk of not reaching targets, and mobilizing and tracking corrective action. A large-scale effectiveness study published in BMJ Open led by health.enabled in collaboration with Reconstra at the University of Indonesia School of Public Health found that RapidPro was associated with improved immunization coverage, problem-solving and program performance, particularly among districts affected by vaccine hesitancy. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/e3ppE7YA 

In our busy urban lives, keeping up with health can be tough, especially with workplace migration. Digital health tools like WhatsApp chatbots are becoming more essential for easy access to health information. Meet HelloVAXI —a simple yet effective chatbot that not only answers your vaccination-related questions but also helps you locate the nearest vaccination service. It’s our small, yet critical step towards making health management a bit easier for everyone. Start your conversation with HelloVAXI by texting 'Hi' to 8929 850850 on WhatsApp. Available in Hindi and English #DigitalHealth #UrbanHealth #Vaccination #HelloVAXI

Vaccination Strategies Impact: India’s Maximising Immunisation Impact 🔬 New insights from India's vaccination strategy reveal a promising path to improving child health outcomes. #VaccinationStrategiesImpact shows cost-effective ways to increase coverage and reach the most vulnerable. 🌍💉 Discover how Intensified Mission Indradhanush made a difference. Let's aim for a future where no child is left behind. #ImmunisationForAll #PublicHealth https://lnkd.in/d3VKZtXV