Multiple cohort HPV vaccination in Zimbabwe: 2018–2019 program feasibility, awareness, and acceptability among health, education, and community stakeholders

• DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2021.05.074
• Publication Date: 2021-06-15T22:59:32Z
• Authors: Julie R. Garon; Aluwisio Mukavhi; Maxwell Rupfutse; Shakia Bright; Timothy Brennan; Portia Manangazira; Qian An; Anagha Loharikar
• Keywords: Community Health; HPV vaccines

Zimbabwe introduced human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine nationally in May 2018, targeting multiple cohorts (girls aged 10-14 years) through a school-based vaccination campaign. One year later, the second dose was administered to concurrently with first given new single cohort of girls grade 5. We conducted cross-sectional surveys among health workers, school personnel, and community members assess feasibility implementation, training, social mobilization, acceptability.Thirty districts were selected proportional volume HPV doses delivered 2018; two facilities randomly within each district. worker, coordinator, village leader surveyed at facility surrounding area during January-February 2020, using standard questionnaires. Descriptive analysis completed across groups.There 221 interviews completed. Over 60% workers reported having enough staff carry out sessions schools while maintaining routine services facilities. All coordinators felt should be future. Knowledge correct target eligibility decreased from 91% 2018 50% 2020 workers. Understanding infection use for cervical cancer prevention above 90% all respondents. Forty-two percent respondents hearing rumors about vaccine, primarily regarding infertility safety.Findings demonstrate presence highly knowledgeable schools, strong acceptance, program considered feasible implement Zimbabwe. However, misunderstandings persist, which can impact uptake coverage. Continued mobilization efforts maintain demand training on recommended. Integration, partnerships, resource are also needed ensure sustainability.