Lessons Learned: Rotavirus & PCV Vaccine Introduction in Niger

The Republic of Niger’s comprehensive multi-year plan 2011-2015 proposed adding three new vaccines into its routine immunization system—the nationwide introductions of pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) and rotavirus vaccine, and a demonstration project of human papilloma virus vaccine (HPV) in two districts (urban and rural).

Following the submission of its country plan to Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, Niger was approved and received funding for the introduction of these new vaccines. With the goal of better preparing the country for the introduction of these vaccines into the national routine immunization system, Gavi also responded to the country’s request for additional technical support by enlisting JSI on an agreement that began in September 2013 and ended in February 2016.

As part of this assistance, JSI worked with the MOH’s Immunization Division (DI) and partners to rapidly assess the country’s introduction readiness level and status of preparations for these introductions, including identifying areas in the field where more attention was required: technical assistance for updating and further outlining the DI’s micro-plan and timeline of activities for the rotavirus introduction (which then became linked with the delayed PCV introduction); training and management tools; logistics and cold chain preparedness; communication, advocacy and social mobilization strategies and plans/activities; monitoring and coordination at all levels; etc.

This report details the lessons learned from the introduction of pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) and rotavirus vaccine in two districts (urban and rural) in Niger. JSI, 2016.