Impact of COVID-19 on routine childhood immunisations in low- and middle-income countries: A scoping review
Details
Publication Year 2023,Volume 3,Issue #8,Page e0002268
Journal Title
PLoS Global Public Health
Abstract
Routine vaccines are critical to child health. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted essential health services, particularly in low-and middle-income countries (LMICs). We reviewed literature to determine the impact of COVID-19 on service delivery and uptake of routine childhood immunisation in LMICs. We reviewed papers published between March 2020 and June 2022 using a scoping review framework, and assessed each paper across the World Health Organisation health system strengthening framework. Our search identified 3,471 publications; 58 studies were included. One-quarter of studies showed routine childhood immunisation coverage declined (10% to 38%) between 2019 to 2021. Declines in the number of vaccine doses administered (25% to 51%), timeliness (6.2% to 34%), and the availability of fixed and outreach services were also reported. Strategies proposed to improve coverage included catch-up activities, strengthening supply chain and outreach services. Re-focusing efforts on increasing coverage is critical to improve child health and reduce the likelihood of disease outbreaks.
Publisher
PLOS
Research Division(s)
Population Health And Immunity
PubMed ID
37611014
Open Access at Publisher's Site
https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pgph.0002268
Terms of Use/Rights Notice
Refer to copyright notice on published article.


Creation Date: 2023-08-28 09:37:12
Last Modified: 2023-08-28 09:47:26
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