Intensive Pulse Polio immunization programme Evaluation

Background

Programme Evaluation Projects undertaken by AIIMS-India CLEN team provide a unique opportunity for policy relevant research carried out with utilizers of research i.e., Program managers at the highest level and donors, both of whom were the ke stakeholders in ensuring a "Polio Free India and World". The Government of India decided to intensify the PPI programme during 1999-2000. Instead of two National Immunization Days (NID) per cycle, four NIDs were conducted during the monthsof October, November, December, 1999 and January, 2000. It was feared that beacause of this intensification both implementation and community fatique might surface after third and fouth NIDs. Therefore, the fatique components were assessed in the 3rd and 4th NIDs.

Objectives of the Study

The objectives of the program evaluation were to assess the implementation process with focus on the fatique component.

Methods

Qualitative methods were used to obtain opinions and perceptions of the respondents. Rapid assessment procedures (RAP) like in depth interviews with the policy makers, planners and the facilitators, and focus group discussions (FGD) were used.

Study Setting and Investigators

The study was conducted in 24 districts convering 16 major states representing most socio-cultural and geographical regions of the country. All the six Clinical Epidemiology Units, 17 Partnet Medical Colleges and an NGO took part in this evaluation exercise.

Recommendations

Health workers and other providers to realize that health department alone cannot accomplish the task of polio eradication. NGO leaders, religious priests and medical practitioners should be involved in preparation of microplan, developing implementation strategies and convincing 'non acceptors' of IIPI through focused interpersonal communication.

Al this stage of the program, a very efficient AFP surveilance system is critical to provide valid information about wild virus transmission in the community.

Some funds should be earmarked for specific contigencies e.g. hiring priviate vehicles or for local procurement of IEC material.

It is essential to give some incentives to field staff to sustain their interest and motivation. These can be in the form of compensatory off or honoring them at public functions by distributing certificates of participation.

Social mobilization messages must address issues regarding the rational for repeated doses of polio drops; safety of additional doses of polio drops;gains of the program and necessary to continue with PPI for many years.