Immunization

Expanded Programme on Immunization

Mission Statement

To Eradicate, Eliminate or Reduce diseases to the lowest levels possible through sustained immunization of all susceptibles as an essential component of Primary Health Care.

Areas of Technical Co-operation

Assist member countries to:

	Achieve an immunization coverage rate of 95% or more with all vaccines in use. Identify and immunize children in communities where coverage is less than the national target.
	Monitor immunization coverage rate monthly. Ensure that supply of vaccines are well managed through an efficient cold chain, including maintenance of system.
	Promote community participation aimed at increasing immunization coverage rates.
	Continue intensive surveillance of the EPI diseases especially polio, measles and rubella with effective investigation and control measures.

Milestones:

1977: Immunization Officer appointed for the Caribbean arrives at CAREC to organize EPI

1978: EPI managers designated in the 19 CAREC Member Countries

1979: First EPI course in planning, management and evaluation was held for 34 senior nurses

1980: EPI Training Modules introduced and the first EPI Managers' Meeting held in Jamaica

1982: Last outbreak Polio in the Caribbean

1985: Director of PAHO announced the goal to eradicate polio from the Americas

1988: Health Ministers resolved to eliminate indigenous measles from the Caribbean by 1995

1994: Polio eradicated from the Americas

1996, September: Five years without confirmed transmission of indigenous measles

Achievements

Over 80% immunization coverage achieved throughout the Caribbean with quality service and potent vaccines An active, intensive, sensitive surveillance system in place for polio and measles. Polio declared eradicated in 1994. Measles has not been diagnosed since 1991 despite active weekly intensive surveillance from over 600 units from 19 countries. Diphtheria, Pertussis and Tetanus are virtually unknown. Less than 10 cases per year occur throughout the Caribbean.