Integration Models for Delivering COVID-19 Vaccines Through HIV Services in Low-and Middle-Income Countries: A...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases
• Vaccinology

Background:

• Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) poses a significant global health threat.
• People living with HIV (PLHIV) are a vulnerable population at increased risk for severe COVID-19 outcomes.
• Integrating COVID-19 vaccination into HIV services may enhance vaccine uptake among PLHIV.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and describe models for delivering COVID-19 vaccines through HIV care services in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Main Methods:

• A scoping review was conducted following PRISMA-ScR guidelines.
• Searches were performed on PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE for relevant studies.
• The review focused on integrated COVID-19 vaccine delivery strategies for PLHIV.

Main Results:

• Three studies from sub-Saharan Africa detailed implementation models.
• Strategies included call-back systems, diverse partnerships, and mixed service delivery.
• Key implementation tactics involved capacity building, demand generation, supply chain management, and stakeholder engagement.
• Significant increases in vaccination coverage and reduced vaccine wastage were observed.

Conclusions:

• Integrating COVID-19 vaccination into existing HIV services is a practical and effective strategy in LMICs.
• This integration leverages existing infrastructure, established partnerships, and local innovations for successful vaccine delivery.