CDC's COVID-19 International Vaccine Implementation and Evaluation Program and Lessons from Earlier Vaccine...

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Vaccinology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) plays a crucial role in supporting international vaccine introductions, including those for SARS-CoV-2.
• The CDC has developed global technical resources, guidance, and policies for COVID-19 vaccination programs worldwide.
• The COVID-19 International Vaccine Implementation and Evaluation (CIVIE) program was established to bolster national vaccination capacities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the CDC's contributions to global COVID-19 vaccine implementation.
• To detail the structure and priorities of the CIVIE program.
• To share lessons learned from previous vaccine introduction programs.

Main Methods:

• The CIVIE program offers country-specific technical assistance across seven priority areas.
• These areas include vaccine policy, program planning, demand generation, data management, workforce development, safety, and evaluation.
• The discussion incorporates insights from prior experiences with Ebola, influenza, and meningococcal vaccines.

Main Results:

• The CDC actively supports international partners in establishing and enhancing COVID-19 vaccination programs.
• The CIVIE program focuses on building sustainable national capacities for vaccine rollout.
• Lessons from past vaccine introductions inform current global COVID-19 strategies.

Conclusions:

• The CDC's CIVIE program is instrumental in advancing global COVID-19 vaccine implementation.
• Strengthening national capacities is key to successful vaccine programs.
• Leveraging historical data and experiences enhances the effectiveness of international public health initiatives.