Countdown is working with Gavi to improve 26 African countries’ use of immunization data. The study’s objectives are to:

  • Enhance country analytical capacity for coverage and equity of immunization;
  • Produce annual reports on immunization coverage and equity, using all available data sources, with a focus on subnational levels, that can be used to inform country, regional and global (WUENIC) monitoring of progress; and
  • Produce annual report summarising progress and achievements. This will include a small set of quantitative indicators to facilitate learning about the new approach.

The study officially launched in May 2024. Analytical work took place from June through August, and country reports are expected in October, with further advanced analysis continuing through December. The project is planned for two years, and another annual meeting will be held next year.

 

Background and rationale

Immunization is one of the most cost-effective and safest methods to curb the spread of communicable diseases and reduce neonatal and child morbidity and mortality. In addition to offering protection from preventable diseases, immunization facilitates contact between families and health systems, providing a channel for the delivery of other basic health services. Ensuring universal access to vaccines is a critical entry point for universal health coverage (UHC).

However, disparities in vaccine coverage and childhood mortality persist. In 2021, globally approximately 25 million children did not receive basic vaccinations. The sub-Saharan African region has the highest under-five mortality rate globally, and basic childhood vaccination coverage remains low in many countries.

 

Participating countries:

The participating countries are 26 countries with existing Countdown collaborations, plus four countries that are in the process of establishing Countdown collaborations (Central African Republic, Madagascar, Mauritania and Somalia):

Eastern and Southern Africa (11): Ethiopia, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, Somalia, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

West and Central Africa (15): Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Central African Republic Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, and Sierra Leone.

 

Data Sources:

              The study will synthesize multiple data sources and take advantage of the fact that immunization reporting systems have now been integrated into the DHIS2 systems in countries. Other data sources will include countries’ health commodities management system data (LMIS), Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS), Demographic Health Surveys (DHS), WHO and UNICEF’s Joint Reporting Form (JRF), WHO and UNICEF’s national coverage estimates, and equity data from the International Center for Equity in Health. Analysis will be conducted through a series of virtual and in-person analysis workshops, with country collaboration members and Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) analysts from each country.

 

Previous blog posts: