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The immunisation coordinator: improving uptake of childhood immunisation
1Department of Public Health, North Essex Health Authority.
Communicable Disease Report. CDR Review
|June 24, 1994
Summary
Local public health interventions significantly improved childhood immunisation rates. Targeted efforts by an immunisation coordinator successfully increased vaccine uptake, helping most practices meet national targets.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Immunisation Programs
- Childhood Vaccinations
Background:
- Achieving national childhood immunisation targets requires local focus.
- The effectiveness of local immunisation coordinator interventions on uptake was previously unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if local interventions by an immunisation coordinator in a district health authority improved childhood immunisation uptake.
- To assess the impact of targeted outreach on persistent non-attenders.
Main Methods:
- An immunisation coordinator and public health nurse monitored local uptake.
- Interventions included telephone calls, letters, and home visits to encourage parental consent.
- Outcomes for 82 children (primary vaccination or preschool booster) were tracked over one year.
Main Results:
- 58 out of 82 targeted children were vaccinated following interventions.
- Childhood immunisation coverage increased across the locality.
- Preschool booster uptake rose from 87% to 90%.
Conclusions:
- Local immunisation coordinator interventions are effective in improving vaccine coverage.
- Targeted outreach strategies successfully engage hesitant parents.
- The study demonstrated a positive impact on achieving national immunisation goals.