Assessing the Resilience of Child Immunisation Programs in Sub-Saharan Africa amidst the Covid-19 Pandemic: Tracking Coverage and Identifying Key Challenges

Chifuniro S Mankhwala, African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP)
Ruth Vellemu, AMREF Malawi
Chimwemwe Chifungo, African Institute for Development Policy
Themba Mzembe, African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP)
Tabitha Ngwira, African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP)
McEwen Khundi, African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP)
Maame B Peterson, African Institute for Development Policy
Michael Chipeta, African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP)
Nyovani Madise

Implementation of measures to contain the spread of COVID-19, such as lockdowns, adversely affected child healthcare accessibility and delivery, particularly immunisation programmes. This study examined the impact of the pandemic on child immunisation in Ethiopia and Kenya using monthly health management information system data. Interrupted time series and counterfactual analyses were applied to identify cold spots through geospatial mapping at the sub-national level. This study reveals that routine immunisation services endured temporary disruptions at the national level in Ethiopia and Kenya. Notable disruptions were observed in specific regions and counties at sub-national levels, likely due to pandemic-related fears and control measures. Conflict and climate-related challenges also played a more substantial role in specific areas' health outcomes compared to the pandemic. While some areas adapted well, others faced exacerbated issues necessitating reprioritisation of efforts, highlighting the varied impact of the pandemic on immunisation services in these African countries.