Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on routine immunization

Abstract

The current COVID-19 global pandemic continues to impact healthcare services beyond those directly related to the management of SARS-CoV-2 transmission and disease. We reviewed the published literature to assess the pandemic impact on existing global immunization activities and how the impact may be addressed. Widespread global disruption in routine childhood immunization has impacted a majority of regions and countries, especially in the initial pandemic phases. While data indicate subsequent recovery in immunization rates, a substantial number of vulnerable people remain unvaccinated. The downstream impact may be even greater in resource-limited settings and economically poorer populations, and consequently there are growing concerns around the resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases, particularly measles. Guidance on how to address immunization deficits are available and continue to evolve, emphasizing the importance of maintaining and restoring routine immunization and necessary mass vaccination campaigns during and after pandemics. In this, collaboration between a broad range of stakeholders (governments, industry, healthcare decision-makers and frontline healthcare professionals) and clear communication and engagement with the public can help achieve these goals. Key messages The COVID-19 pandemic has a substantial impact on essential immunization activities. Disruption to mass vaccination campaigns increase risk of VPD resurgence. Catch-up campaigns are necessary to limit existing shortfalls in vaccine uptake. Guidance to mitigate these effects continues to evolve.

Childhood Immunisation Coverage during the COVID-19 Epidemic in Italy

“…In this regard, the WHO [3,4] recommends maintaining vaccination activities and prioritising primary series vaccinations, especially for measles, rubella, and poliomyelitis, and the immunisation services, and to evaluate current national epidemiology of VPD and the COVID-19 local transmission scenario. Maintaining high VC is even more important during the COVID-19 crisis to avoid the resurgence of VPD [41] and mitigate the risk of health system collapse, especially where the magnitude and impact of under-immunisation are severe. Institutional Review Board Statement: Ethical review and approval were waived for this study due to the use of anonymised and aggregated data on vaccination status.…”

Unveiling the contributions of immunization for progressing towards Universal Health Coverage

“…Planning how to safely deliver routine vaccinations during future pandemics will also be key in preventing any future disruptions to routine vaccination services. 42 …”

Dampak Pandemi Covid-19 Terhadap Keputusan Orang Tua Melakukan Imunisasi Rutin Anak: Literature Review

“…Sebanyak 87% cakupan imunisasi rutin campak, rubella, dan DPT di Indonesia mengalami penurunan lebih dari 35% dibandingkan pada periode tahun sebelumnya. Hal ini menjadi perhatian karena banyak rekomendasi imunisasi pada usia 24 bulan pertama kehidupan [6], [7].…”