TABLE 4.
Strategies to improve immunization rates for the general and HTR populations during a pandemic situationa
Challenge | Strategies for the general population | Additional strategies for HTR populations |
---|---|---|
At the individual level | ||
Alert target populations to the need to be vaccinated | Recognize and address rumors rapidly | Partner with trusted organizations |
Mobilize mass public vaccination programs quickly | Engage the community and target population | |
Improve access with community-based sites; home visits, convenient hours of operation | ||
At the provider level | ||
Expand the provider pool | Mobilize additional nurses and pharmacists | |
Maintain documentation | ||
Simplify vaccine administration protocols | Keep vaccination protocol fast and simple | |
Estimate rates of adverse events and be prepared to manage them promptly | ||
At the structural level | ||
Prioritize population segments | Families of first responders have requested tier 1 coverage | Follow NVAC/ACIP recommendations for prioritization |
Involve the public in prioritization planning | ||
Implement an information dissemination plan | Develop and distribute communication and education materials | |
Test outreach messages with target groups | ||
Plan for a Federal distribution program | Provide current information to the public via the news media | Plan well in advance and coordinate logistics at all levels |
Develop state-based plans for vaccine distribution | Statewide plans should address underserved populations | |
Be prepared: know state and local vaccination rates | ||
Test the plan under simulated conditions | Clearly delineate responsibility and authority | |
Select vaccine distribution points before the crisis | Planning is key | Use nontraditional settings |
Vaccinate in nontraditional settings and at convenient times | Identify and recruit organizations to distribute vaccine to HTR populations | |
Improve technology to increase vaccine capacity | Find better ways to manufacture | |
Maximize use of limited vaccine stocks | Investigate use of adjuvants | |
Evaluate dose-optimization strategies |
aStrategies outlined for the general population are not meant to be fully comprehensive and may also be applicable to HTR populations.