Abstract
Despite their vital role, routine immunization programs are taken for granted. Coverage levels are poor in some countries and have stagnated in others, while addition of new vaccines is an additional stressor. We need to strengthen: (1) policy processes, (2) monitoring and evaluation, (3) human resources, (4) regular delivery and supply systems, (5) local political commitment and ownership, (6) involvement of civil society and communities, and (7) sustainable financing. Rebalancing immunization direction and investment is needed.
Highlights
Robert SteinglassaRoutine immunization programs are taken for granted. Coverage levels are poor in some countries and have stagnated in others, while addition of new vaccines is an additional stressor
Despite their vital role, routine immunization programs are taken for granted
The World Health Assembly has endorsed a Global Vaccine Action Plan (GVAP),[1] in which immunization is to be extended as a human right beyond infancy across the entire life cycle
Summary
Routine immunization programs are taken for granted. Coverage levels are poor in some countries and have stagnated in others, while addition of new vaccines is an additional stressor. We need to strengthen: (1) policy processes, (2) monitoring and evaluation, (3) human resources, (4) regular delivery and supply systems, (5) local political commitment and ownership, (6) involvement of civil society and communities, and (7) sustainable financing. With a global sense of purpose and vastly increased resources, new partners have entered the vaccine and immunization arena. Anticipating the end of poliomyelitis, some are already scanning the horizon for the disease to eradicate. At this promising moment, the immunization, disease control, and development communities collectively would do well to reflect on past and current directions so as to engage in a genuine debate about the need to restore balance within the realm of immunization
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