Progress in the control of measles in Ghana, 1980-2000

By review of available literature, routine surveillance data, coverage surveys, and hospital records, measles control in Ghana was assessed since vaccinations began in 1978. Nationally, measles vaccination coverage increased from 24% in 1980 to 84% in 2000. This achievement is attributed to health sector reforms that included a higher district share of the total recurrent health budget from 20% in 1996 to 42% in 1999. The budget reallocation resulted in improved access to immunization services, supply procurement, transport management, staff motivation, and information flow. On the client side, the age of the child, socioeconomic status of parents, and type of prenatal care were associated with vaccination coverage. Routine vaccination coverage of >80% has resulted in lower measles incidence, a longer interepidemic interval, and a shift in cases to older children. Ghana recently developed a strategic plan to reduce measles deaths to near zero.