• Pan Afr Med J · Jan 2021

    [Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on childhood immunization in Morocco: electronic survey of 103 pediatricians].

    • Nabila Chekhlabi, Raja Arrab, Said Ettair, and Nouzha Dini.
    • Service de Pédiatrie, Hôpital International Universitaire Cheikh Khalifa Ibn Zayed, BP 82403 Oum Rabii, Hay Hassani Boulevard Mohamed Taieb Naciri, Casablanca, Maroc.
    • Pan Afr Med J. 2021 Jan 1; 38: 134.

    Introductionno one can deny that vaccination against several serious diseases in the world, and particularly in Morocco, has given very satisfactory protective results. The extension of the COVID-19 pandemic in our country has led to a significant decline in childhood immunization, which could have severe repercussions increasing the risk of future outbreaks. Hence, the measures of the Ministry of Health to correct the situation. The purpose of this study was to highlight the extent of vaccine release during COVID-19 pandemic and to make recommendations to restore vaccination programmes.Methodswe conducted a cross-sectional study of the effect of containment measures during this pandemic on the monitoring of children´s vaccinations. We conducted a national survey of pediatricians using an electronic questionnaire administered via Google Forms. We collected, analyzed and interpreted the results.Resultsone hundred and three Moroccan pediatricians answered the questionnaire. More than 2-thirds (78.6%) of pediatricians practiced in the private sector and delivered vaccines in the immunization schedule. The majority of pediatricians (95%) were asked about parental vaccine concerns. We noted that 82.5% of parents were reluctant to go to the local health department and 5.8% refused to take vaccination during COVID-19 pandemic. About 22% of pediatricians completely stopped immunization services and 72.8% delayed immunizations from 3 to 4 weeks. Vaccination stoppage involved older children in two thirds of cases.Conclusionit is essential to maintain public confidence in vaccination. Ongoing and timely assessment of vaccine coverage as well as clear recommendations and broad public awareness are essential to respond to vaccine changes during the COVID-19 pandemic.Copyright: Nabila Chekhlabi et al.

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