Current status of routine immunization and polio eradication in the African region: challenges and recommendations

Abstract

BACKGROUND 1. An estimated 2–3 million childhood deaths are averted each year through vaccination while approximately 600 000 adult deaths are prevented annually, thanks to hepatitis B vaccination.1 2. The potential for vaccination to contribute to even greater mortality reduction and accelerate attainment of the health-related Millennium Development Goals (MDG), particularly MDG4, can be realized with further improvements in vaccination coverage and large-scale introduction of new vaccines targeting an increasing number of infectious diseases. 3. The 2006–2009 Regional EPI Strategic Plan2 developed in line with the Global Immunization Vision and Strategy (GIVS)3 identified five main strategic areas including strengthening routine immunization and poliomyelitis eradication. 4. In 2008, the Regional Committee for Africa endorsed the Ouagadougou Declaration on Primary Health Care and Health Systems in Africa,4 urging Member States to continue investing in national health systems. 5. In 2009, Member States adopted a regional measles elimination goal5 to be attained by 2020 and endorsed a stepwise approach requiring the attainment by 2012 of the proposed pre-elimination targets.