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. 2021 Dec;53(1):2286-2297.
doi: 10.1080/07853890.2021.2009128.

Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on routine immunization

Martin O C Ota  1 , Selim Badur  2 , Luis Romano-Mazzotti  3 , Leonard R Friedland  3
Affiliations

Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on routine immunization

Martin O C Ota et al. Ann Med. 2021 Dec.

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 messagesThe 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.

Keywords: COVID-19; immunization coverage; pandemic; public health impact; routine immunization.

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Conflict of interest statement

M. O. C. O., S. B., L. R.-M., and L. R. F. are employed by the GSK group of companies and hold shares in the GSK group of companies.

Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.
Decision-making framework for implementation of mass vaccination campaigns: Decisions should follow a step-by-step sequence. Modified from WHO published guidance [44]. COVID-19: coronavirus disease 2019; HID: high impact disease; IPC: infection prevention and control; VPD: vaccine-preventable disease.
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