Implementation of vaccination policies.
There are seven essentials for the implementation of vaccination policies. (1) Exact knowledge of the epidemiological situation allows us to decide how best to use vaccines for maximum benefit to the community as well as to the individual. (2) Active and dedicated research will ultimately solve scientific unknowns and lead to the development of ideal vaccines for infants, children, adolescents, adults and elderly persons. (3) Simple access depends on world-wide availability of high-quality vaccines, easy access to medical care, low costs, adequate reimbursement and clear liability. (4) An optimum delivery system of vaccines will be approached by reducing the number of necessary doses, introducing combination vaccines, using the oral route, increasing heat stability, avoiding misconception about contraindications and giving priority to vaccination in the first year of life. (5) Clear and open information campaigns by accepted vaccination authorities are urgently needed. (6) Since benefits of immunizations are invisible and because vaccines are not big money makers, financial and other supports of vaccination programs need constant pressure from the concerted action of professionals involved in immunization. (7) Continuous evaluation of national and international vaccination programs are crucial, followed by both reactions and actions.
Schaad
U B
UB
University of Basel, Basler Kinderspital, Switzerland.
D006291:Health Policy; D006801:Humans; D014611:Vaccination