Success story on Community Mobilisation on COVAX

The COVID-19 vaccination programme started in Maridi in July 2021 with Astra Zeneca administered to 584 persons. Initially, the programme targeted health workers and the elderly who were at risk of getting COVID-19. The vaccination programme was available in one centre and expected to serve approximately 26,515 people. However, due to poor sensitisation efforts, rumours and myths surrounding the Corona virus, mass vaccination was not attained. Towards the end 2021, a second batch was brought on board to support the vaccination drive with a bigger team.

Similarly, COVAX acceleration with HPF support was done to ensure gaps in remote areas were covered, with three teams in three locations. Community sensitisation meetings were held, coupled with church announcements. The team also implemented “Reach every village, reach every household and reach every community” strategy to ensure that the reach targeted every village. These combined strategies improved turn-up.

Individuals who witnessed the vaccination of the elderly and the physically challenged who voluntarily came for vaccination were encouraged to get the vaccine. In total 1,084 persons were vaccinated in 4 weeks. Some locations could not be accessed due to poor security situation.

 

NOTE* Update on COVID-19 vaccination in South Sudan

In June 2022, HPF through Phase 1 of their immunisation programme carried out a high-intensity campaign to vaccinate populations against COVID-19. Through cost-effective & efficient methods 76,025 people have so far been immunised against COVID-19.