PROGRAM OF MULTIPLE-ANTIGEN CHILDHOOD IMMUNIZATION IN YAOUNDE, CAMEROON - 1ST-YEAR EVALUATION, 1975-1976

  • 1 January 1977
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 55  (5) , 633-642
Abstract
The Yaounde multiple-antigen childhood immunization program began in Nov. 1975, making it one of the 1st expanded programs on immunization operational in Africa. During the first 9 mo., more than 22,000 children were immunized against poliomyelitis, measles, tuberculosis, smallpox, whooping cough [P], tetanus [T] and diphtheria [D]. Evaluation of the program showed the following rates of immunization coverage in the target population: 30% for DPT (1 dose or more), 27% for poliomyelitis (1 dose or more), 27% for BCG, 33% for measles and 20% for smallpox. Eighty percent of children received the correct vaccines for their age and vaccination status. Seroconversion to measles vaccine was 89% in those over 12 mo. of age but only 50% in those 6-11 mo. of age. The major factor in low immunization coverage was inadequate publicity. Some logistic problems encountered during this initial year of operation are discussed.