Trends and inequalities in full immunization coverage among two-year-olds in Sierra Leone, 2008–2019
The study's findings highlight the need for sustained efforts to improve immunization coverage in Sierra Leone. While there was progress between 2008 and 2013, the subsequent decline emphasizes the importance of maintaining vital immunization programs. Addressing the significant regional disparities, particularly the gap between the southern and northern regions, is recommended. This requires targeted interventions to improve access to immunization services, strengthen health systems, and address the northern region's underlying social and economic factors. Additionally, ongoing monitoring and evaluation are essential to identify and address emerging challenges and ensure equitable access to immunization for all children in Sierra Leone.
Authors
- Bright Opoku Ahinkorah
- Umaru Sesay (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6040-8660)
- Camilla Bangura (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4571-8246)
- Augustus Osborne (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0226-841X)
- Hassan Benya
Institutions
- University of Sierra Leone (SL)
- Njala University (SL)
- Ministry of Defence (SL)
- Takoradi Technical University (GH)
- Sierra Leone Urban Research Centre (SL)
- African Field Epidemiology Network (UG)
- Sierra Leone Agricultural Research Institute (SL)
- The University of Adelaide (AU)
Publication Details
- Journal
- PLoS ONE
- Published
- 2025-09-12
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0329572
- Primary Topic
- Vaccine Coverage and Hesitancy
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00