This article, from the Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B, examines recent efforts to accelerate the introduction of Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccines in developing countries, which resulted in a significant surge in vaccine adoption by these countries. The author states that this experience provides a strategy for new vaccine adoption with a useful model to help accelerate the uptake of other life-saving vaccines. This strategy focuses on three major areas: communications to increase awareness about the various factors needed for evidence-based decisions that meet a country's health goals; research activities to answer key questions that support vaccine introduction and long-term program sustainability; and coordination with the various stakeholders at global, regional, and country levels to ensure successful program implementation.

Author: Hajjeh R

Published: 2011

Resource types: Peer-reviewed journal

Diseases/vaccines: Not disease/vaccine specific

Topics: Advocacy and communications, Introduction and service delivery

Regions: Global