Insufficient vaccine coverage for vaccines included in the National Program of Immunization

Abstract

Vaccine coverage for vaccines provided through the Natio­nal Immunization Program is an element that is evaluated annually, including in Romania. Unfortunately, with the exception of the tuberculosis vaccine which has an optimal vaccine coverage (over 95%) both in total and in areas of residence (urban and rural), thus ensuring effective pro­tec­tion, for other types of vaccines this desideratum does not reach. Vaccine coverage of less than 95% does not provide effective cohort protection. This is the case for all types of pediatric vaccines administered in our coun­try, other than the tuberculosis vaccine. Comparing the na­tio­nal data with those determined by World Health Orga­ni­za­tion worldwide, we notice that in Romania, although the per­­cen­­tages are not very low, their amount does not offer sufficient protection. Real tests and measures with an impact on the immunization process are needed to in­crease the level of vaccine coverage.