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Rotavirus immunization: Global coverage and local barriers for implementation.
Andrea Lo Vecchio1, Ilaria Liguoro2, Jorge Amil Dias3
1Section of Pediatrics, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.
Vaccine
|February 21, 2017
Summary
Rotavirus immunization coverage remains low globally due to high vaccine costs and limited awareness of rotavirus disease severity. Public health initiatives are crucial to overcome these barriers and increase rotavirus vaccination rates.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Rotavirus (RV) is a leading cause of childhood gastroenteritis and mortality worldwide.
- Rotavirus immunization (RVI) is a key strategy for diarrheal disease control, identified as a priority by FISPGHAN.
- A FISPGHAN working group assessed global RVI coverage and implementation barriers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate current global rotavirus immunization coverage.
- To identify local barriers hindering the implementation of rotavirus immunization programs.
- To inform strategies for improving RVI uptake.
Main Methods:
- A global survey was distributed to national experts in infectious diseases and health authorities.
- Data collected between March 2015 and April 2016.
- Information gathered on local RVI recommendations, costs, and perceived barriers.
Main Results:
- 62% response rate from 79 contacted countries; 55% recommended RVI.
- 16 countries (33%) introduced RVI into their National Immunization Schedule between 2012-2014.
- Elevated vaccine cost (49%) is the primary barrier; family payment (43%) and low perceived disease severity (47%) also significantly impede RVI.
Conclusions:
- Rotavirus immunization implementation remains unacceptably low a decade after introduction.
- Barriers to RVI vary by region, with cost and awareness being major factors.
- Public health authorities must enhance caregiver/provider education and collaborate locally to boost RVI.
