Too little but not too late: Results of a literature review to improve routine immunization programs in developing countries
2008

Improving Immunization Programs in Developing Countries

Sample size: 60 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Ryman Tove K, Dietz Vance, Cairns K Lisa

Primary Institution: Global Immunization Division, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Hypothesis

What strategies can be used to improve routine immunization programs in developing countries?

Conclusion

Immunization programs need to strengthen service delivery and program managers must be aware of proven strategies to improve vaccination coverage.

Supporting Evidence

  • Over 11,000 papers were identified, but only 60 met the inclusion criteria.
  • The review highlighted four main strategies to improve immunization programs.
  • Community involvement was shown to significantly increase vaccination rates.

Takeaway

This study looked at ways to help more kids get their vaccines in developing countries by using community helpers and better planning.

Methodology

A systematic review of studies and projects reported in the published and gray literature was conducted, with papers rated based on methodological rigor.

Potential Biases

The review may have missed relevant gray literature and was biased towards published papers.

Limitations

Only 25 papers met the inclusion criteria, and many were of moderate scientific quality.

Participant Demographics

The studies focused on immunization programs in low- and middle-income countries.

Statistical Information

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1472-6963-8-134

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