Impact of COVID-19 on routine childhood immunisations in low- and middle-income countries: A scoping review
- Author(s)
- Dalton, M; Sanderson, B; Robinson, LJ; Homer, CSE; Pomat, W; Danchin, M; Vaccher, S;
- 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
- Publisher's Version
- https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pgph.0002268
- 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