Advocacy and communications
No public health tool has been as successful and cost-effective as vaccines at saving lives, particularly among the world’s children. However, creating awareness about the benefits of immunization is critical to creating demand for vaccines. For that reason, focused advocacy—an effort to influence policy and decision-makers—and communication efforts on the importance of vaccines are key components in the fight against vaccine-preventable diseases.
View resources on advocacy and communications
Key resources
Advocacy for Immunization (2001)
A GAVI Alliance paper that discusses how to generate and maintain support for vaccination programs, including how to involve key stakeholders and evaluate programs.
Strengthening Immunization Programs: The Communication Component (2004)
A report from BASICS and the US Agency for International Development (USAID) that outlines the key elements of immunization communications and serves as a tool for program planning and management.
Why Invest in Communication for Immunization? Evidence and Lessons Learned (2005)
A report supported by the Health Communication Partnership and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) that identifies communication challenges that affect the success of immunization services, offers evidence of the contributions of communication activities, identifies lessons learned, and suggests ways in which communication can continue to strengthen immunization programs.
Communicating With Patients About Immunization (2000)
A kit created by the National Network for Immunization Information designed to help health care providers discuss immunization with their patients, including immunization recommendations and common questions and concerns.
Featured PATH resources
Childhood Immunization: A Worthwhile Investment (2003)
An immunization advocacy tool, this PowerPoint presentation is designed to be adapted for different situations.
Hepatitis B Vaccine Introduction: Lessons Learned in Advocacy, Communication, and Training (2001)
A summary of lessons learned as a result of more than ten years of experience introducing hepatitis B vaccine worldwide.
Helping Young People Become Youth Advocates for Immunization (2000)
A paper for teachers and youth group leaders containing practical ideas for teaching children and young adults about infectious disease, immunization, and injection safety and to encourage them to promote immunization in their communities.
Realizing the Full Potential of Childhood Immunization: How Health Professionals Can Make a Difference (1999)
A paper on local advocacy for doctors, nurses, and health educators with many practical suggestions for grassroots initiatives supporting immunization.
