A comparative study on the vaccine coverage in children under 5 years in Houaphan Province, Lao PDR

Abstract

Background: Immunization plays a vital role in the lives of children in the protection against infectious diseases such as measles, polio, tuberculosis, hepatitis B, and diphtheria. Under the National Health Mission in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), there are different programs and facilities for newborn and child health. However, despite these schemes and programs, the immunization coverage rate in the rural areas of Lao PDR is considerably low as compared to that in urban areas. We conducted a critical review of the various factors, schemes, and research currently being conducted on child immunization. Methods: A retrospective secondary data analysis was performed. Secondary data on childhood immunization coverage in 2018 was collected from the Directorate General of Health Prevention of the Ministry of Health, Lao PDR. Results: The coverage of immunization in the rural areas increased by only 1%, from 55% in 2018 to 56% in 2019, whereas that in urban areas increased significantly by 22%, from 71% in 2018 to 93% in 2019 because the Expanded Program Immunization Department in urban areas has improved its performance at health centers and ensures that vaccines are available with proper storage and maintenance of the cold chain. Conclusion: Although impressive gains have been made in reducing infant mortality and increasing immunization coverage in the Lao PDR, inequalities persist in rural areas. International organizations and governments of the Lao PDR each have important roles in supporting not only vaccine purchases but also infrastructure efforts and supervision that can achieve and sustain national immunization goals. The immunization policy must be national in scope. Additionally, it must be flexible enough to respond to special circumstances that occur in urban and remote areas.