Inactivated Poliovirus Vaccine Campaign in Kenya: Lessons Learned

ABSTRACT

Despite being free of polio since 2006 Kenya has suffered a number of wild poliovirus outbreaks in the subsequent years. In December 2013; in response to one such outbreak in Dadaab; inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV) was co-administered with oral poliovirus vaccine as a more effective measure in closing immunity gaps. A five-day vaccination campaign was staged followed by a vaccination coverage survey in the refugee camps of Dadaab and the surrounding host communities. A variety of operational challenges were faced - the number of health facilities; outreach sessions; human resources and cold chain logistics were suboptimal in the campaign area with its scattered population and nomadic living pattern. However; despite the challenges; the survey showed that excellent coverage was achieved. Lessons learned evidence that IPV can be administered in similar geographical settings; and that systematically tailored training; timely and capacity-based operational/micro-planning; and evidence-based communication and social mobilization can make for successful outcomes: