Results of the expanded program on immunization in the Macedonian refugee camps

Am J Public Health. 2001 Oct;91(10):1656-9. doi: 10.2105/ajph.91.10.1656.

Abstract

Objectives: This report summarizes the results of the Macedonian refugee camps' Expanded Program on Immunization.

Methods: Government agencies and nongovernmental organizations implemented an immunization program consisting of 3 mass vaccination campaigns in each of the 7 camps. Before the second mass campaign, weekly immunization clinics were initiated in each camp. Children younger than 48 months were immunized against 8 antigens according to a schedule established by the Macedonian Ministry of Health.

Results: Immunization coverage rates in the second campaign were 91% in Cegrane and 73% in Brazda. Coverage rates of the weekly clinics averaged 93%.

Conclusions: Initiating an expanded immunization program in the absence of a stable population is problematic.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Child, Preschool
  • Greece / epidemiology
  • Humans
  • Immunization Programs / organization & administration*
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Program Evaluation
  • Refugees*
  • Vaccination / statistics & numerical data*