Maternal vaccines: ten considerations for vaccine introduction and scale-up in low- and middle-income countries from the maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health perspective

ABSTRACT

Despite significant reduction in childhood mortality, infant – particularly neonatal – mortality continues to be unacceptably high. A substantial proportion of these deaths could be averted by vaccinating mothers during pregnancy (maternal immunization). However, in order to realize the full life-saving potential of maternal immunization, it is important to develop clear introduction and delivery strategies for maternal vaccines. This will necessitate close collaboration between maternal health and immunization stakeholders. This article examines key considerations and areas for action to support successful and sustainable introduction and scale-up of maternal immunization, from the perspective of maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health stakeholders.

KEYWORDS:

• Maternal immunization
• maternal health
• integration
• neonatal morbidity and mortality
• pregnant women
• antenatal care

Acknowledgments

The authors are grateful to Deborah Higgins for her review and suggestions on working drafts of this article.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest

No potential conflicts of interest were disclosed.

Additional information

Funding

This work was funded by a grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Seattle, Washington, USA. The findings and conclusions contained herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the positions or policies of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.