[Public Health initiative for improved vaccination for asylum seekers]

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Disease Prevention
• Immigration Health

Background:

• Germany experienced a significant increase in asylum seekers in 2015.
• Official vaccination recommendations exist, but detailed implementation information was lacking.
• A coordinated vaccination concept was needed to address this gap.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a concept to facilitate vaccinations for asylum seekers.
• To compare vaccination rates under the new concept versus independent physician efforts.
• To identify areas for improvement in vaccination coverage.

Main Methods:

• A vaccination concept was developed involving partner coordination, vaccine supply via local health offices, and physician association cooperation.
• Vaccination data was collected and compared between facilities using the concept and those not.
• The study period covered 2,256 accommodated asylum seekers.

Main Results:

• Twenty-eight percent (642) of all asylum seekers received at least one vaccination.
• Eighty-nine percent (571) of vaccinated individuals were part of the new concept.
• Vaccination rates were 58% in facilities using the concept, compared to only 6% in those without.

Conclusions:

• The developed vaccination concept shows initial success in increasing vaccination coverage among asylum seekers.
• Further innovations, professional planning, coordination, and additional resources are essential for achieving sufficient vaccination coverage.
• Expansion and adjustment of the concept are necessary to meet future needs.