Adolescent vaccination in the developing world: time for serious consideration?

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Vaccinology
• Adolescent Medicine

Background:

• The number of vaccinations and boosters relevant for adolescent delivery is increasing.
• Vaccine delivery for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, in adolescents is vital for future disease control strategies.
• Current adolescent vaccination is not routine due to reliance on school-based delivery, which is historically low in developing countries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the rationale for adolescent vaccination programs.
• To review successful adolescent-targeted healthcare interventions.
• To consider challenges for future adolescent vaccination programs in developing countries.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on adolescent vaccination rationale.
• Analysis of existing adolescent healthcare intervention successes.
• Exploration of challenges in implementing vaccination programs in developing countries.

Main Results:

• Growing relevance of adolescent vaccines, particularly for STIs like HIV.
• Increasing school attendance in developing nations offers a viable delivery route.
• Falling vaccine costs and new adolescent-targeted vaccines support this strategy.

Conclusions:

• Adolescent vaccination via schools is an opportune strategy for future disease control.
• Addressing challenges in developing countries is essential for successful program implementation.
• Placing adolescent vaccination on national and international health agendas is recommended.