[Lessons learned in the implementation of measles and rubella vaccination campaigns in the AmericasLições aprendidas com a implementação de campanhas de vacinação contra sarampo e rubéola na Região das Américas].

Abstract

Objective: To systematize and share knowledge and lessons learned from the implementation of follow-up vaccination campaigns in the Region of the Americas between 2003 and 2023.

Methods: Descriptive report with a quantitative and qualitative analysis of the achievement of targets and lessons learned in 20 years of follow-up vaccination campaigns. The sources consulted were joint reports to WHO and the United Nations Children's Fund on vaccination data and reports to the Regional Commission for Monitoring and Re-Verification of the Elimination of Measles, Rubella and Congenital Rubella Syndrome.

Results: During the period from 2003 to 2023, 68 follow-up campaigns were implemented in 20 countries in the Region of the Americas. Of these, 50.0% (34/68) achieved the minimum expected target of ≥ 95%. In the first decade, from 2003 to 2012, 49.0% (33/68) of the follow-up campaigns were implemented; of those, 54.5% (18/33) achieved ≥ 95%. In the second decade, from 2013 to 2023, 51.0% (35/68) were implemented, with 45.7% (16/35) reaching the ≥ 95% target. The COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted achievement of the targets in the second decade. During the COVID-19 pandemic, 12 follow-up campaigns were carried out; of these, 58.3% (7/12) did not reach at least 95% of the target population.

Conclusions: Follow-up vaccination campaigns are a fundamental tool for sustaining measles and rubella elimination in the Americas, making it possible to update children's immunization schedules and strengthen the routine program.