GTA

Support: Pfizer Foundation/ Global Health Innovation Grant (GHIG) program, USA

Collaboration: Bhanu Municipality

Status: On-going

Objective: The project aims to enhance immunization coverage and reduce vaccine-preventable diseases in the Bhanu Municipality of Tanahun district, Nepal by identifying the target population, developing a community vaccine delivery model, and assessing the feasibility and sustainability of the program.

Methodology/Activities: The project employs a community-based approach using Female Community Health Volunteers (FCHVs), household surveys, mobile applications, and local government collaboration. It integrates real-time tracking, targeted interventions, and capacity- building initiatives for health workers. Data management will be enhanced through a digital immunization register to improve tracking and service delivery​.

The project significantly strengthened primary health care delivery in Bhanu municipality by developing comprehensive training materials including manuals, IEC materials, and diaries for FCHVs and HWs to record the project's necessary data. Also, the existing software eHMIS has been enhanced in its functionality to support project objectives, enabling real-time data tracking of immunization coverage targeting zero-dose children. 60 FCHVs were trained to develop their skills on completing diary for tracking zero-dose children and to encourage them to constantly report collected data into health facilities. Also, training for 68 HCWs had already been conducted to enhance their skills of using eHMIS for proper data management. Microplanning was conducted with stakeholders, FCHVs and health workers to identify SWOT in the current immunization efforts to incorporate the findings into the project design and implementation plan. Furthermore, FCHVs and HCWs has been actively mobilized for effective community mobilization and data collection, which are critical for identifying and reaching zero-dose children.

Expected Outcome: Improved identification and tracking of zero-dose and under-immunized children. Increased immunization coverage and reduced vaccine-preventable diseases. Strengthened health systems through digital tracking and enhanced data management. Greater community participation and trust in immunization programs. A sustainable community-led vaccine delivery model that aligns with national health priorities​.