Immunization Lecture Notes - 11.12.2024
Immunization Lecture Notes - 11.12.2024
Immunization Lecture Notes - 11.12.2024
Lecturer: K’Ombija A. H
MPH/Hons. BALM/HND. Epid./KRCHN
CONTENT
■ Introduction ■ Unit Three:
■ Unit One: ■ Vaccinology & Expanded
▪ Immunization Systems Programme on Immunization
▪ Immunization Operations ■ Unit Four:
▪ Immunization Policies ■ Immunization Service
Delivery & Vaccine
▪ Immunization Norms and Administration
Standards
■ Unit Five:
■ Unit Two:
■ Immunization Programme
■ Service Delivery Strategies & Management
Innovative Approaches
INTRODUCTION: IMMUNIZATION
Important Concepts in Immunization
1. Immunization
√ According to the World Health Organization (WHO), immunization
is the process of making a person resistant to a disease, typically through
the administration of a vaccine. OR,
√ It is the process by which an individual's immune system becomes
fortified against an infectious agent, typically through the administration
of vaccines.
̶ Immunization is a crucial public health tool for preventing infectious
diseases and is essential for controlling outbreaks, protecting vulnerable
populations, and achieving herd immunity.
Cont….. Important Concepts in Immunization
2. Vaccination
̶ Vaccination is a simple, safe, and effective way of protecting you against
harmful diseases, before you come into contact with them. It uses your
body's natural defences to build resistance to specific infections and
makes your immune system stronger.
3. Differences between Immunization and Vaccination
̶ Vaccination is the term used for getting a vaccine — that is, having the
injection or taking an oral vaccine dose, while immunisation refers to the
process of both getting the vaccine and becoming immune to the disease
following vaccination.
Cont….. Important Concepts in Immunization
4. Vaccine
̶ A vaccine is a medical treatment that helps the body's immune system
recognize and fight disease. OR, It is a biological preparation that
provides active acquired immunity to a particular infectious or malignant
disease.
5. Antigen
̶ An antigen (Ag) is a molecule, foreign particulate matter, or an allergen,
such as pollen, that can bind to a specific antibody or T-Cell receptor.
̶ The presence of antigens/pathogens in the body may trigger an immune
response.
Cont….. Important Concepts in Immunization
7. Cold chain: The cold chain is defined as a system of ensuring that
vaccines are maintained at the required low temperatures from the point
of production until it reaches the consumer. It refers to all the equipment,
processes and mechanisms used to store and transport vaccines from the
producer to the user (including vaccine carriers, cold-boxes,
refrigerators, freezers and cold rooms) by air, road and over water
bodies.
8. Catch-up vaccination (Missed opportunity): Refers to the action of
vaccinating an individual who, for whatever reason, is missing or has not
received doses of vaccines for which they are eligible, per the national
immunization schedule.
9. Delayed dose: Refers to a vaccine dose given “late”, or past the window
of timeliness set for that vaccine, in the national immunization schedule.
Cont….. Important Concepts in Immunization
7. Fully immunized child: A fully immunized child by one year is one who
has received all the prescribed antigens and at least one Vitamin A dose
under the national immunization schedule before the first birthday.
8. Minimum interval: is the shortest period permissible between doses of
vaccine(s) requiring multiple doses, for it to provide an adequate immune
response. If the interval between the doses is shorter than the minimum
interval, the vaccine dose may not be effective and is considered invalid.
9. Timely dose – refers to a vaccine dose administered within a certain time
as recommended in the immunization schedule.
10.Under Immunized Children: Are children who have not received a
vaccine dose for which they are eligible (and may have started the
schedule), captured in the program as children who have missed the third
dose of diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis containing vaccine.
Cont….. Important Concepts in Immunization
11. Zero dose children: Are children who have not received any vaccine in the
EPI schedule, captured in the program as children who are eligible but have
not received the first dose of diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis containing vaccine.
12. Defaulter: Person who starts but fails to complete the immunization schedule
for which they are eligible.
13. Delayed dose: Refers to a vaccine dose given “late”, or past the window of
timeliness set for that vaccine, in the national immunization schedule.
14. Minimum interval: is the shortest period permissible between doses of
vaccine(s) requiring multiple doses, for it to provide an adequate immune
response. If the interval between the doses is shorter than the minimum
interval, the vaccine dose may not be effective and is considered invalid.
15. National Vaccine and Immunization Program (NVIP): This is the Division
within the Ministry of Health responsible for the provision and coordination of
vaccination services in Kenya.
Cont….. Important Concepts in Immunization
16. Combined vaccine: It is a single vaccine that protects against multiple
diseases or a single disease caused by different strains of the same
organism. Combination vaccines can be administered in a few ways:
a) Mixed in a vial: Vaccines are mixed together in a vial right before
administration.
b) Combined in a syringe: Vaccines are filled into separate chambers of a
dual-chambered syringe and combined at the time of injection.
c) Manufactured together: Vaccines are manufactured separately but
combined into one product during the final packaging stages.
■ Examples: Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTP), Measles, Mumps, and
Rubella (MMR), Trivalent inactivated polio (IPV), Diphtheria, tetanus, and
acellular pertussis (DTaP) etc.
Cont….. Important Concepts in Immunization
17.Immunization coverage (IC): It is the percentage of a population or age
group that has received a vaccine or series of vaccines:
̶ Formula:
IC = Number of people vaccinated
Total number of people in the population or age group
̶ Immunization coverage is a key indicator of how well an immunization
system is performing.
18. Drop-out rate: It is the percentage of children who start an immunization
series but do not complete it.
̶ Formula:
IDR = Number of children who start the immunization schedule
Number of children who complete the immunization schedule
Cont….. Important Concepts in Immunization
̶ The World Health Organization (WHO) considers a dropout rate of more
than 10% to be unfavorable.
̶ A low dropout rate (less than 10%) indicates good utilization and service
quality.
19. Indicator: An immunization indicator is a metric used to measure the
health of individuals or populations, and to assess the effectiveness of
vaccination programs. There are many different immunization indicators,
including: Immunization coverage, drop out rate etc.
20. Logistics: Immunization logistics is the process of ensuring that vaccines
are available and delivered to the communities that need them.
̶ It involves a number of activities, including: Cold chain management,
Vaccine management and monitoring, Immunization safety, Supply chain
management etc.
Cont….. Important Concepts in Immunization
21. Immunization norms: Immunization norms are standards that ensure the adequate
performance of immunization products and devices.
̶ The standards are based on published international standards and current WHO
immunization policies and guidelines.
22. Immunization standards: Refers to the guidelines and policies that govern the
immunization process, including:
▪ Immunization schedules: The recommended schedule of vaccines for a person's age
group
▪ Immunization coverage: The level of immunization achieved for a population
▪ Immunization supply: The availability of vaccines and related logistics
▪ Immunization quality: The standards that vaccines must meet to be used in a
country.
▪ Immunization outreach: How immunization services are made available to the
community
Cont….. Important Concepts in Immunization
21.Disease elimination: It is the deliberate reduction of a disease to zero
cases in a specific geographic area. It's achieved through control measures,
such as vaccines, medications, and contact isolation.
22.Disease eradication: It is the permanent reduction of a disease to zero
worldwide through deliberate efforts. Once a disease is eradicated, there is
no longer a need for intervention measures to prevent or treat it.
21.Internal environment
̶ The term "internal immunization environment" typically refers to the
systems, policies, and practices within an organization or community that
promote and regulate immunization efforts.
̶ Creating and maintaining an effective internal immunization environment
is crucial for enhancing public health and ensuring the well-being of the
population.
Cont….. Important Concepts in Immunization
̶ It requires collaboration among healthcare providers, policymakers, and
community members.
̶ Here's a breakdown of its components and significance:
■ Components of Internal Immunization Environment
1. Policies and Guidelines:
̶ Established immunization schedules and protocols.
̶ Regulations to ensure compliance with national and international immunization
standards.
2. Community Engagement:
̶ Involvement of community leaders and organizations in promoting
immunization.
̶ Feedback mechanisms to address concerns and questions from the public.
Cont….. Important Concepts in Immunization
3. Education and Training:
̶ Ongoing training for healthcare providers regarding vaccination practices.
̶ Public awareness campaigns to educate the community about the
importance of immunization.
4. Access to Vaccines:
̶ Availability of vaccines in healthcare facilities.
̶ Programs to ensure equitable access for underserved populations.
5. Monitoring and Evaluation:
̶ Systems for tracking vaccination rates and outcomes.
̶ Regular assessment of immunization programs to identify areas for
improvement.
Cont….. Important Concepts in Immunization
■ Significance of Internal Immunization Environment
1. Disease Prevention: A robust internal immunization environment helps
reduce the incidence of vaccine-preventable diseases.
2. Public Health: Contributes to herd immunity, protecting those who
cannot be vaccinated.
3. Trust and Compliance: Builds trust within the community, encouraging
higher vaccination rates and adherence to guidelines.
Cont….. Important Concepts in Immunization
▪ EXTERNAL ENVIRONMENT
̶ The "external environment" in immunization refers to the broader context and
factors that influence immunization programs outside of the immediate
healthcare setting.
̶ This includes social, economic, political, and environmental factors that can
impact vaccination rates and public health outcomes.
̶ The external environment plays a crucial role in shaping immunization
programs and outcomes.
̶ Addressing these external factors is essential for improving vaccine access,
acceptance, and overall public health.
̶ Collaboration among governments, international organizations, and
communities is vital to create a supportive environment for immunization.
Cont….. Important Concepts in Immunization
Here are some key components to consider:
■ Components of the External Environment in Immunization
1. Regulatory Framework: National and international laws and guidelines
governing vaccine approval, distribution, and administration.
̶ Organizations like the WHO that set global immunization standards.
2. Economic Factors: Funding for immunization programs, including
government budgets and international aid.
̶ Economic disparities that affect access to vaccines and healthcare services.
3. Social Determinants of Health: Factors like education, income, and
employment that influence health behaviours and access to healthcare.
Cultural beliefs and practices that shape attitudes toward vaccination.
Cont….. Important Concepts in Immunization
The Immunization Agenda 2030 (IA 2030) has three main impact goals:
1. Reduce morbidity and mortality from vaccine-preventable diseases for
everyone throughout the life course.
2. Leave no one behind, by increasing equitable access and use of new and
existing vaccines.
3. Ensure good health and well-being for everyone by strengthening
immunization within primary health care and contributing to universal
health coverage and sustainable development.
■ Other strategies to improve immunization coverage include:
1. Implementing effective reminder and recall systems
2. Providing financial incentives to providers and/or parents
3. Checking for immunization at schools and early childhood centers
4. Educating the public about immunization
5. Implementing a national immunization coverage surveillance system
6. Reducing costs
7. Linking vaccination to Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) services
8. Conducting home visits
IMMUNIZATION SYSTEMS
Definition
■ These are critical components of public health infrastructure designed to
protect populations from vaccine-preventable diseases.
■ Effective immunization systems are vital for preventing outbreaks and
protecting community health.
■ Continuous improvement, education, and engagement are necessary to
enhance their effectiveness and reach.
Cont…… Immunization Systems
■ Key Components (elements) of Immunization Systems
1. Vaccine Delivery:
̶ Storage and transport: Vaccines must be stored at specific temperatures
and transported safely to maintain efficacy.
̶ Administration: Trained healthcare professionals administer vaccines,
often in clinics, hospitals, and community settings.
2. Surveillance:
̶ Disease monitoring: Tracking incidence rates of vaccine-preventable
diseases helps identify outbreaks and vaccination needs.
̶ Vaccine coverage: Monitoring vaccination rates among different
demographics ensures equitable access and identifies gaps.
Cont…… Immunization Systems
3. Data Management:
̶ Immunization registries: Digital systems that track individual
vaccination histories facilitate reminders and follow-ups.
̶ Reporting systems: Healthcare providers report vaccination data to public
health authorities for analysis and planning.
4. Public Education and Outreach:
̶ Awareness campaigns: Informing the public about the benefits and safety
of vaccines encourages higher uptake.
̶ Community engagement: Involving community leaders can enhance trust
and acceptance of immunization programs.
Cont…… Immunization Systems
5. Policy and Funding:
̶ Government initiatives: National policies and funding support
vaccination programs, ensuring they are accessible and affordable.
̶ International collaboration: Global health organizations work together
to address vaccination disparities in low-resource settings.
Cont…… Immunization Systems
■ Key Challenges in Immunization Systems
̶ Immunization systems face several challenges that can hinder their
effectiveness and reach.
̶ Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach, including
public education campaigns, improved logistical planning, equitable
access initiatives, and strengthened healthcare infrastructure.
̶ Collaboration among governments, healthcare providers, and
communities is essential for enhancing immunization systems and
achieving better public health outcomes.
Cont…… Immunization Systems
̶ Here are some key challenges associated with immunization systems:
1. Vaccine Hesitancy
̶ Misinformation: Widespread misinformation about vaccine safety and
efficacy can lead to distrust.
̶ Cultural Beliefs: Some communities may have cultural or religious
beliefs that oppose vaccination.
̶ Fear of Side Effects: Concerns about potential side effects can deter
individuals from getting vaccinated.
Cont…… Immunization Systems
2. Logistical Issues
̶ Cold chain management: Vaccines often require specific temperature
controls during storage and transport. Failures in the cold chain can
compromise vaccine efficacy.
̶ Supply chain disruptions: Interruptions in the supply chain can lead to
vaccine shortages or delayed access.
3. Accessibility
̶ Geographical barriers: Remote or rural areas may have limited access to
healthcare facilities offering vaccinations.
̶ Healthcare infrastructure: Inadequate healthcare infrastructure can
impede the delivery of vaccination services.
Cont…… Immunization Systems
4. Equity and Inclusion
̶ Marginalized populations: Vulnerable and marginalized groups, including
low-income communities and ethnic minorities, may face barriers to
accessing vaccines.
̶ Language and literacy: Communication barriers can prevent effective
outreach and education about vaccination.
5. Policy and Funding Challenges
̶ Inconsistent policies: Variability in vaccination policies across regions can
lead to confusion and inequity.
̶ Funding shortages: Insufficient funding for immunization programs can
limit their reach and effectiveness.
Cont…… Immunization Systems
6. Surveillance and Data Management
̶ Inadequate data systems: Poor data collection and management can hinder
the tracking of vaccination rates and disease outbreaks.
̶ Lack of integration: Immunization data may not be integrated with general
health records, complicating follow-up and reporting efforts.
7. Global Health Disparities
̶ Developing countries: Many low-income countries struggle with
immunization due to resource constraints and health system challenges.
̶ Pandemic impact: Global health crises, like the COVID-19 pandemic, can
disrupt routine immunization schedules and outreach efforts.
IMMUNIZATION OPERATIONS
Definition
̶ These refer to the systematic processes and activities involved in
planning, implementing, and managing immunization programs to ensure
the effective delivery of vaccines to populations.
̶ These operations encompass various aspects, including logistical,
administrative, and educational components, aimed at maximizing
vaccination coverage and minimizing vaccine-preventable diseases.
̶ Immunization operations are crucial for the success of vaccination
programs.
■ Effective management of these operations ensures that vaccines are
accessible, safe, and administered efficiently, ultimately leading to
improved public health outcomes and the prevention of vaccine-
preventable diseases.
Cont…. Immunization Operations
■ Key Elements of Immunization Operations
1. Planning and Coordination
̶ Program Development: Establishing goals, strategies, and timelines for
immunization campaigns.
̶ Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborating with health authorities,
community leaders, and organizations to align efforts and resources.
Cont…. Immunization Operations
2. Logistics and Supply Chain Management
̶ Vaccine Procurement: Ensuring a reliable supply of vaccines through
effective procurement strategies.
̶ Cold Chain Management: Maintaining the required temperature
conditions for vaccines during storage and transport.
̶ Distribution: Coordinating the delivery of vaccines to healthcare
facilities and outreach locations.
Cont…. Immunization Operations
3. Training and Capacity Building
̶ Healthcare Provider Training: Equipping healthcare workers with the
knowledge and skills needed for vaccine administration and patient
education.
̶ Capacity Strengthening: Enhancing the capabilities of local health systems
to support immunization efforts.
4. Data Management and Monitoring
̶ Immunization Registries: Implementing systems to track individual
vaccination histories and coverage rates.
̶ Surveillance and Reporting: Monitoring vaccine-preventable diseases and
vaccination coverage to inform public health decisions.
Cont…. Immunization Operations
5. Public Awareness and Education
̶ Community Outreach: Engaging with communities to promote the
importance and safety of vaccines.
̶ Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy: Providing accurate information to counter
misinformation and build trust in vaccination programs.
6. Evaluation and Improvement
̶ Program Assessment: Regularly evaluating the effectiveness and
efficiency of immunization operations to identify areas for improvement.
̶ Feedback Mechanisms: Incorporating feedback from healthcare providers
and the community to enhance program delivery.
Cont…. Immunization Operations
■ Challenges of Immunization Operations
̶ Immunization operations face a variety of challenges that can impede the
effectiveness and efficiency of vaccination programs.
̶ Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach,
including improved logistics, enhanced public education, equitable access
initiatives, and stronger data management systems.
̶ Collaboration among stakeholders—such as governments, healthcare
providers, and communities—is essential to strengthen immunization
operations and ensure effective vaccination delivery.
Cont…. Immunization Operations
■ The key challenges affecting immunization operations:
1. Logistical Challenges
̶ Cold Chain Logistics: Ensuring vaccines are stored and transported at the
correct temperatures is critical, and failures can lead to vaccine spoilage.
̶ Supply Chain Disruptions: Interruptions in the supply chain can result in
vaccine shortages or delays, affecting immunization schedules.
2. Resource Constraints
̶ Funding Limitations: Insufficient funding can restrict vaccine
procurement, training, and outreach efforts.
̶ Human Resource Shortages: A lack of trained healthcare workers can
hinder the administration of vaccines and the management of
immunization programs.
Cont…. Immunization Operations
3. Data Management Issues
̶ Inadequate Information Systems: Poor data collection and management
systems can lead to gaps in tracking vaccination rates and disease
outbreaks.
̶ Integration Challenges: Difficulty in integrating immunization data with
broader health information systems can limit program effectiveness.
4. Vaccine Hesitancy
̶ Misinformation: The spread of inaccurate information about vaccines can
lead to public distrust and lower vaccination rates.
̶ Cultural Barriers: Some communities may have beliefs or practices that
discourage vaccination, necessitating tailored education and outreach
efforts.
Cont…. Immunization Operations
5. Inequitable Access
̶ Geographical Barriers: Rural or underserved urban areas may have
limited access to vaccination services, leading to disparities in coverage.
̶ Marginalized Populations: Vulnerable groups may face additional
barriers related to language, education, or socio-economic status.
6. Policy and Regulatory Challenges
̶ Inconsistent Policies: Variability in immunization policies at local,
national, and international levels can create confusion and inequities.
̶ Regulatory Hurdles: Complex regulations can complicate vaccine
approval and distribution processes.
Cont…. Immunization Operations
7. Emerging Health Threats
̶ Pandemic Preparedness: Health crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic,
can disrupt routine immunization services and lead to declines in
coverage.
̶ Evolving Disease Patterns: Changes in disease epidemiology can
necessitate adjustments in vaccination strategies and priorities.
IMMUNIZATION POLICY IN KENYA
Definition
A policy (statement) is a set of rules and guiding principles that help an
organization operate effectively and efficiently to achieve a particular
outcome.
■ Importance / Benefits of Policy Statements:
1. Define expectations: Policy statements outline the expectations for all
members of an organization and hold them accountable to the same
standards on immunization requirements.
2. Promote consistency: Policy statements help ensure that everyone in the
immunization management and service delivery is working towards the
same goals. This consistency can help build a healthy reputation for
immunization services.
Cont… Immunization Policy in Kenya
3. Reduce risk: Policies and procedures can help reduce the risk of
liability for immunization management and service delivery.
4. Provide a framework: Policy statements provide a framework for how
an immunization management and service delivery operates.
5. Define actions: Policy statements define the actions that are
advantageous to the immunization management and service delivery.
Cont… Immunization Policy in Kenya
9. Trust Building
̶ Transparency: Involving the community in decision-making processes
fosters transparency and builds trust between health authorities and the
public.
̶ Long-term Relationships: Strong community ties can lead to ongoing
collaboration in health initiatives beyond immunization.
INTEGRATED APPROACHES IN IMMUNIZATION
Definition
Refers to immunization programs that are combined with other health
services to improve access to care, strengthen health systems and improve
immunization coverage.
B. Quality of Immunizations
The WHO has several initiatives to ensure the quality of immunizations,
including:
1. Biological standardization: This brings together committee of experts to
develop and revise recommendations for vaccine production and quality
control.
2. Prequalified vaccines: These includes vaccines that meet the WHO's
standards for quality, safety, and efficacy. These vaccines are also suitable
for the target population and meet the operational specifications for
packaging and presentation.
Cont….. Accessibility and Quality of Immunization
3. Immunization data quality self-assessment (DQS) tool: This tool helps
verify the accuracy of reported coverage data. It compares data from one
level, such as a form or report, to the same information reported at a more
central level.
4. Vaccines Explained series: This series of explainers from the WHO
provides information about vaccines, including how they work, how
they're made, and how to ensure safety and equitable access.
5. Monitor temperature: Regularly check the temperature of the storage
unit and review temperature trends weekly. Use temperature monitoring
devices on each vial.
6. Store and handle vaccines correctly: Ensure that vaccines are stored and
handled properly.
Cont….. Accessibility and Quality of Immunization
7. Train staff: Ensure that all staff are trained in their role in immunization
delivery and patient education, including offering friendly services.
8. Designate an immunization coordinator: This person should be the
point person for ensuring that vaccines are stored and handled correctly,
and that staff are trained.
9. Use the right diluent: Only use the diluent provided by the
manufacturer.
10. Dispose of unused vaccines: Throw away unused vials of reconstituted
vaccine after a vaccination session.
11. Use auto-disable syringes: Use only auto-disable syringes with a fixed
needle.
Cont….. Accessibility and Quality of Immunization
12. Dispose of waste properly: Collect, transport, and dispose of waste in an
appropriate manner.
13. Educate staff on risks: Educate personnel on the risks of technical
errors.
14. Adequate allocation of resources: Commit to allocating timely and
adequate human and financial resources.
15. Engage with the community: Engage with community leaders and
representatives of the civil society to inform decisions.
16. Update supply chains: Update supply chains and logistical processes to
improve efficiency, accessibility, and reliability.
IMMUNIZATION SERVICE DELIVERY STRATEGIES
AND
INNOVATIVE APPROACHES
̶ Implementing these strategies can enhance immunization rates and ensure
equitable access to vaccines, ultimately improving community health outcomes.
A. Immunization Service Delivery Strategies
̶ Here are some innovative approaches for improving immunization service
delivery:
1. Integrated health immunization services: Combine immunization with other
health services, such as maternal and child health care, to streamline access
and improve overall health outcomes.
i. Decade of vaccines
̶ The Global Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Pneumonia and
Diarrhoea (GAPPD) interventions include:
1. Protect children: Promote exclusive breastfeeding, adequate
complementary feeding, and HIV prevention
2. Prevent pneumonia: Vaccinate children, wash hands with soap,
reduce household air pollution, and provide cotrimoxazole prophylaxis
for HIV-infected and exposed children
3. Treat pneumonia: Ensure that children have access to the right care,
including antibiotics and oxygen.
Cont… Immunization Service Delivery Strategies and
Innovative Approaches
4. Vaccines: 90% of children should have access to vaccines that protect against
pneumonia and rotavirus
5. Breastfeeding: At least 50% of children should be exclusively breastfed for the
first six months of life
6. Antibiotics: 90% of children should have access to antibiotics for pneumonia
7. Oral rehydration salts: Children with diarrhea should have access to oral
rehydration salts
8. Sanitation and drinking water: All children should have access to safe
drinking water and improved sanitation
9. Indoor air pollution: Reduce indoor air pollution
10. HIV transmission: Virtually eliminate pediatric HIV transmission
Cont… Immunization Service Delivery Strategies and
Innovative Approaches
New Challenges in Immunization Service Provision
These include:
1. Unimmunized: Despite all effort to immunize all the children, some
still remain unimmunized.
2. Identifying under-immunized children: It can be challenging to
identify under-immunized children, especially those who are transient
or marginalized.
3. Unreached and Hard to reach: Some children and women remain
unreached or hard to reach.
4. Vaccine cost: The cost of vaccines, especially Hib-containing vaccines,
is high in proportion to the budgets of many developing countries.
Cont… Immunization Service Delivery Strategies and
Innovative Approaches
5. Limited access: In 2023, 14.5 million infants did not receive their first
dose of the DTP vaccine, and 6.5 million were partially vaccinated. This
is due to a lack of access to immunization and other health services.
6. Vaccine supply: There is a limited global supply of preferred products,
especially combination vaccines.
7. Vaccine hesitancy: Vaccine hesitancy is a challenge to immunization
service provision.
8. Assessing population sizes: It can be challenging to accurately assess
population sizes in urban slums.
Cont… Immunization Service Delivery Strategies and
Innovative Approaches
9. Disrupted healthcare services: Disruptions in healthcare services are a
challenge to immunization service provision.
10. Logistical challenges: Logistical challenges are a challenge to
immunization service provision.
11. Inequities in access: Inequities in access to services are a challenge to
immunization service provision.
12. Capturing data from private providers: It can be challenging to capture
data from private providers.
VACCINOLOGY AND EXPANDED PROGRAMME ON
IMMUNIZATION
A. VACCINOLOGY
Definition The Process of Vaccine Development
■ It is the branch of medical science ̶ The vaccine development process
concerned with vaccines and their includes:
development to prevent infectious
1. Experimental stages
diseases and cancers.
2. Preclinical stages
̶ It involves a variety of medical 3. Clinical stages
specialties, including: immunology,
infectious illnesses, epidemiology, 4. Manufacturing stages
public health, and pediatrics. 5. Quality control stages
6. Regulatory review stages
7. Approval stages
NATURAL HISTORY OF DISEASE
Definition
The natural history of a disease refers to the progression of a disease in an
individual over time, encompassing all stages from initial exposure to
resolution or chronicity.
̶ Understanding this progression is crucial for prevention, diagnosis, and
treatment.
̶ The natural history of a disease provides valuable insights into its
progression, informing healthcare strategies and improving patient
outcomes.
̶ Understanding these stages helps prioritize prevention, enhance early
detection, and guide effective treatment options.
Cont…. Natural History of Disease
Key Stages of The Natural History OF Disease
1. Susceptibility:
̶ Definition: This stage involves the presence of risk factors that make an
individual more vulnerable to developing a disease. Factors can be genetic,
environmental, lifestyle-related, or a combination.
̶ Examples: Age, sex, genetic predisposition, environmental exposures, and
lifestyle choices (e.g., smoking, diet).
2. Exposure:
̶ Definition: The point at which an individual comes into contact with a
disease-causing agent (e.g., bacteria, viruses, toxins).
■ Examples: Infections through vectors (like mosquitoes), exposure to
pollutants, or contact with infectious individuals.
Cont…. Natural History of Disease
3. Pre-symptomatic Phase (Incubation Period):
̶ Definition: The period after exposure when the disease is developing but
symptoms have not yet appeared. Can be short or lengthy.
̶ Examples: The incubation period for influenza is typically 1-4 days, while
for HIV, it can be several years before symptoms emerge.
4. Clinical Phase:
̶ Definition: Symptoms become apparent, and the individual may seek
medical attention. This phase includes the onset of clinical signs and
symptoms and can be further divided into:
̶ Mild: Symptoms are manageable and may not require hospitalization.
Cont…. Natural History of Disease
̶ Moderate to Severe: Symptoms necessitate medical intervention, which may
include hospitalization or intensive care. Examples: Fever, pain, fatigue, or
specific signs related to the disease.
5. Recovery or Chronicity:
̶ Recovery: The individual may fully recover, returning to a state of health.
̶ Chronicity: The disease may persist over time, leading to long-term health
issues or disability.
̶ Examples: Chronic diseases like diabetes or heart disease may require
ongoing management and can significantly impact quality of life.
Cont…. Natural History of Disease
6. Resolution or Death:
̶ Resolution: The disease resolves either through the body’s immune
response or medical treatment.
̶ Death: In severe cases, the disease can lead to mortality.
̶ Examples: Some infections can resolve spontaneously, while others, like
certain cancers, may lead to death if not treated effectively.
Cont…. Natural History of Disease
Components:
̶ Lymphocytes: B cells (produce antibodies) and T cells (kill infected cells or
help other immune cells).
̶ Antibodies: Proteins that specifically target and neutralize pathogens.
̶ Characteristics: Slower initial response but provides long-lasting protection
through memory cells that remember past infections.
Cont…. Types of Immunity
3. Active Immunity
̶ Definition: Immunity that develops when the immune system is exposed to
a pathogen and produces its own antibodies.
■ Methods of Acquisition:
a) Natural Active Immunity: Acquired through infections (e.g., recovering
from chickenpox).
b) Artificial Active Immunity: Acquired through vaccinations (e.g., receiving
a flu vaccine).
Cont…. Types of Immunity
4. Passive Immunity
̶ Definition: Immunity gained by receiving antibodies from another source
(mother to foetus) rather than producing them.
■ Methods of Acquisition: