A Review of Immunisation Policy and the African Child

Abstract

Background: This paper set out to review immunization policy in African States using Nigerian experience with a view to identifying policy failure (if any). It attempted to highlight the shortcomings and the impact of the immunization programme/policy on African Child. The paper proffered solutions. Methods: The paper utilized both primary and secondary sources of data but heavily depended on secondary source. The study used descriptive and inferential statistical methods to analyse the information gathered. Results: The findings of the study revealed that, although immunization policy has achieved tremendous impact on African child by reducing to some extent, the killer diseases attacking African child, yet the immunization coverage is relatively low (Tables I-IV), when compared with the European nations. Conclusion: It concluded that implementation of immunization policy is weak and underfunded. It therefore recommended that public enlightenment and awareness of the policy be stepped up adding that African governments should back up the policy with adequate funding and effective political will if only for the sake of innocent African child.

KEY WORDS: Policy, Programme, Immunisation, Mortality, Diseases, Coverage and impact.