Country Immunization Information System Assessments (IISAs), in Kenya (2015) and Ghana (2016)

The collection, analysis, and use of data to measure and improve immunization programme performance are priorities for WHO, global partners and national immunization programmes (NIPs). High quality data are essential for evidence-based decision-making to support successful NIPs. The characteristics of high-quality immunization information systems include consistent recording and reporting practices; optimal access to, and use of, health information systems; and rigorous interpretation and use of data for decision-making. Immunization information system assessments (IISAs) were conducted in Kenya in 2015 and in Ghana in 2016, using a new WHO and United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) assessment methodology designed to identify root causes of immunization data quality problems and facilitate the development of plans for improvement. Data quality challenges common to both countries included low confidence in facility level target population data (Kenya 50%; Ghana 53%) and poor data concordance between child registers and facility tally sheets (Kenya 0%; Ghana 3%). In Kenya, systemic challenges included limited supportive supervision and lack of resources to access electronic reporting systems; in Ghana, challenges included a poorly defined subdistrict administrative level. Both countries

are implementing Data Quality Improvement Plans (DQIPs) based on assessment findings. IISAs can help countries identify and address root causes of poor immunization data in order to provide a stronger evidence base for future immunization programme investments.