Title: Introduction
Course: Immunization - Ethiopia (Full)

You learned about the main vaccine-preventable bacterial diseases in Study Session 3 of the Communicable Diseases Module, Part 1

The most effective way of reducing the major vaccine-preventable diseases is to maintain a high level of immunization in the whole population, using the routine Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) vaccines. In this study session, you will learn about the antibacterial vaccines that are approved for routine use in Ethiopia for preventing some common bacterial diseases, and the storage, dosages and schedules for immunization with these vaccines.

Figure 2.1  Immunization saves millions of children’s lives. (Photo: AMREF Ethiopia/Demissew Bizuwork)

This study session will also help you to give clear information about vaccination to the people in your community, including the importance of giving the vaccines as scheduled to their children – even though it makes them cry for a short time (Figure 2.1). Reassure parents about the low risk of adverse events following immunization (AEFIs) and how to manage vaccine reactions if they occur.

As you learned in Study Session 1, contraindication — in the context of immunization — means a medical reason for not giving the vaccine, either temporarily or permanently. Note that children with a mild illness should still be immunized at the scheduled time. Contraindications, such as a high-grade fever (38.5^oC or above), mean you should refer the child to a health centre and wait until they recover.