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MeNZB vaccine and epidemic control: when do you stop vaccinating?
Belinda J Loring1, Nikki Turner, Helen Petousis-Harris
1Toi Te Ora - Public Health, Bay of Plenty District Health Board, Tauranga, New Zealand. bjloring@yahoo.com
Abstract:
New Zealand developed a strain-specific group B meningococcal vaccine to control an epidemic. Following a mass vaccination campaign of three doses to the population under 20 years of age, commencing in July 2004, the vaccine continued to be offered routinely as a four-dose schedule from 6 weeks of age. There is little international data on when to cease epidemic vaccination campaigns. The decision to stop using this vaccine needed to take into account a range of factors. These included epidemiology, vaccine effectiveness and duration of immunity, vaccine coverage, concomitant use with other vaccinations being added to the infant schedule, vaccine supply and cost-benefit criteria. This paper discusses these issues, along with the potential challenges for communication to both health professionals and the public.
Insights
New Zealand
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Vaccinology
Background:
- New Zealand implemented a targeted vaccination program using a strain-specific group B meningococcal vaccine to combat a rising epidemic.
- The vaccination strategy involved an initial mass campaign for individuals under 20, followed by a routine four-dose schedule for infants from six weeks of age.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the multifaceted considerations involved in discontinuing an epidemic control vaccination program.
- To provide insights into the decision-making process for ceasing meningococcal B vaccination campaigns, given limited international precedents.
Main Methods:
- The study reviews epidemiological data, vaccine effectiveness, duration of immunity, and coverage rates.
- It also considers the integration of the vaccine with other infant immunizations, supply chain logistics, and cost-benefit analyses.
- Communication strategies for healthcare professionals and the public are also examined.
Main Results:
- The decision to cease the group B meningococcal vaccination program required balancing various factors including disease burden, vaccine performance, and resource allocation.
- Effective communication was identified as crucial for managing the transition among stakeholders.
Conclusions:
- Discontinuing a public health vaccination program necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of scientific, logistical, and economic factors.
- Careful planning and clear communication are essential for a successful program transition and maintaining public trust in vaccination initiatives.
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