Dual Bacillus Calmette–Guerin vaccination along the border communities of Angola and Namibia

Abstract

Without a doubt, the synchronization of public health intervention on health issues along the international border will enhance the control of epidemic-prone disease and other health-related behavior. However, the lack of holistic planning and the involvement of the members of border communities could result in undesired health related events. This report advanced reasons that could have resulted in a child receiving two separate doses of Bacillus Calmette–Guerin vaccine within the first 4 days of life in two different health facilities. Finally, this report highlighted the need for proactive community participation and the need for consensus by experts on guidelines on how to deal with such cases particularly in the unfortunate event of adverse reactions.

Strengthening Routine Immunization Services in an Angolan Comuna: The Fight against the Burden of Unvaccinated Children in the Sustainable Development Goals Era

“…This study has several limitations. First, the results concerning administered doses may have been influenced by reporting bias: For example, Ombadja District borders with Namibia, and local people often access health services (including immunization) across the borders in both countries [28]. This particular situation could also lead to difficulties in the interpretation of vaccination cards due to different schedules and languages, resulting in errors in data collection regarding the number of doses administered.…”