title: [Control of tropical epidemics by vaccination--an update].
abstract: Most tropical epidemics affect populations living in developing countries where the natural environment features an exotic mix of biological risks. Routine vaccination programs such as the Immunization Plus Program can prevent epidemics. Mass vaccination has been shown to reduce the epidemic consequences, for instance, of meningococcal meningitis outbreaks. However availability of an effective vaccine is not the only requirement for a successful program. Successful use of vaccination also requires sustained program funding, trained personnel, and adequate diagnostic facilities. Community involvement is an essential element as is follow-up that depends on steadfast political commitment that must not weaken at the first signs of progress in terms of reducing incidence and mortality. As for other public health care actions, use of vaccination becomes difficult, if not impossible, in war zones that are common in tropical countries. Like the use of vaccination programs, outcomes have been inconsistent ranging from complete success with eradication to complete failure with re-emergence of some diseases. Strong determination in the application public health care policy is the most important factor in successful control of epidemics. Vaccination is only one tool available to those involved in such efforts. Like all tools the efficacy of vaccination depends how it is used.
authors.affiliation: Conseil scientifique du Comité international de médecine militaire, Bruxelles. mmerlin@cimm-icmm.org
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Merlin
mesh_terms: D000349:Africa / Q000453:epidemiology; D003906:Developing Countries; D004196:Disease Outbreaks / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D017589:Immunization Programs; D032541:Mass Vaccination; D008585:Meningitis, Meningococcal / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D022401:Meningococcal Vaccines / Q000008:administration & dosage; D011159:Population Surveillance; D011634:Public Health / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D014329:Tropical Climate; D014611:Vaccination / Q000379:methods*
chemical_list: D022401:Meningococcal Vaccines