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Obstacles to routine immunization in Madagascar: Structural, relational and cultural constraints
Henintsoa Joyce Valentina Ramaroson1,2, Chiarella Mattern1, Elise Huysmans3
1Health & Social Sciences, Epidemiology and Clinical Research Unit, Pasteur Institute of Madagascar (IPM), BP 1274 Ambatofotsikely Avaradoha, 101 Antananarivo, Madagascar.
Low childhood immunization rates in Madagascar are influenced by parental understanding and mistrust, exacerbated by COVID-19. Addressing these factors is crucial for strengthening vaccine programs and improving child health outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Anthropology
- Public Health
- Vaccinology
Background:
- Childhood immunization coverage remains low in Madagascar.
- The COVID-19 pandemic has increased vaccine hesitancy.
- Understanding factors influencing immunization practices and perceptions is critical.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of anthropological studies on childhood immunization in Madagascar.
- To analyze factors impacting immunization practices and parental representations of vaccines.
- To assess the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on vaccine perception.
Main Methods:
- Review of anthropological studies on childhood immunization.
- Analysis of parental perspectives on vaccine roles and benefits.
- Examination of contextual factors influencing vaccine uptake.
Main Results:
- Parents view vaccines primarily as reinforcement against illness.
- Misunderstanding exists regarding combination vaccines.
- Complex relationships noted between immunization, injections, and health passports.
- Contextual factors (newborn frailty, postpartum confinement, lack of knowledge) affect uptake.
- Mistrust and lack of understanding signal a fragile health system.
Conclusions:
- Parental understanding and contextual factors significantly impact childhood immunization in Madagascar.
- The COVID-19 pandemic has amplified existing challenges in vaccine perception.
- Strengthening immunization programs requires addressing systemic fragilities and improving health literacy.
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