Title:
Review of Immunization Service Provision in Non-State Ethnic Actors Controlled Areas, Eastern Myanmar
Authors:
Thaw, Pyae Mon
Year:
2015
PAGE:
x, 58
Language:
En
Keywords:
Immunization, Immunisation, EPI, Barrier, Access, Myanmar
Abstract:
Background: According to multiple indicator cluster survey (MICS) (2009-2010), in Kayin State, Myanmar, 97.6% of children received all vaccinations and DPT3 immunization coverage was reported as 98.4%. However, the figures from MICS do not represent the whole Kayin State since it was mentioned that non-state ethnic actors (NSEA) controlled areas were excluded from the survey. Little has been known about the availability of immunization services, immunization coverage and barriers to access immunization in NSEA controlled areas of Kayin State. Objective: This study will explore the provision of immunization services in NSEA controlled areas in Kayin State, eastern Myanmar in order to make recommendations to ministry of health to strengthen EPI coverage as well as to advocate donors to continue supporting existing health programs in NSEA controlled areas of Myanmar. Methodology: The study is conducted by using literature review method. To assess the immunization coverage in NSEA controlled areas of Kayin State, the secondary data review is done using the immunization program data obtained from Karen Department of Health and Welfare (KDHW). Findings: The immunization coverage in NSEA controlled areas of Kayin State is significantly lower compare to the coverage in Kayin State and the coverage nationally. The underlying unique political situation in NSEA controlled areas is the main obstacle that limits access to basic health services. The major barriers described in this review include parental knowledge and awareness regarding vaccination, family characteristics, geographical remoteness, transportation difficulties, weakness in the immunization program as well as in service delivery and weakness in communication and information delivery. Conclusions and Recommendations: Not only health related barriers but also underlying conflict and political barriers need to be resolved to strengthen EPI coverage in NSEA controlled areas of Myanmar. Due to the multiplicity of the barriers identified, no single strategy or intervention can tackle all the barriers. A multi-faceted strategy is essential to ensure that the immunization services reach the unreached children in Myanmar.
Organization:
KIT - Royal Tropical Institute
,
VU - Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Institute:
KIT (Royal Tropical Institute)
Department:
Health Unit
Country:
Myanmar
Region:
Southeastern Asia
Training:
Master of Public Health / International Course in Health Development (MPH/ICHD)
Category:
Research
Right:
© 2015 Thaw
Document type:
Thesis/dissertation
File:
UC3oYYUNmh_20161103160431874.pdf