[Immunization coverage in the Monkey Bay Head zone Malawi]

To assess the immunization coverage of children in the Monkey Bay head zone, Malawi where the Icelandic International Development Agency (ICEIDA) has been working to improve health care services in the recent years.

A 30 by 7 cluster sample survey, as defined by WHO's Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) was conducted to estimate immunization coverage of children aged 12-23 months for tuberculosis (BCG), diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (DTP), polio (OPV) and measles immunizations. The Head Zone consists of 97 villages with a population of around 105,000 inhabitants. Five health centres provide immunization services in the area. In total were 217 children in 30 clusters randomly selected and their immunization status by card or history registered.

Immunization coverage by card or history was 97% for BCG, and 99%, 95% and 85% for DTP1, DTP2 and DTP3 respectively. Coverage of OPV1, OPV2 and OPV3 by card or history was 99%, 93% and 85% respectively. Coverage for measles by card or history was 78%. Fully immunized children by card or history were 152 or 70%. Two children had not received any immunizations. Drop-out rate from DTP1 to DTP3 vaccination by immunization card or history was 14.5%, and drop-out from DTP1 to Measles by card or history was 21%.

These results indicate that access to childhood immunization in the Monkey Bay head zone is good while drop-out rate is high. This indicates that access to health services is adequate. However, the coverage of measles appears to be insufficient to prevent outbreaks, and must be improved. The efficacy in delivering immunization can be improved and enhanced utilization of the services offered should be sought.