Journal article
The case for reactive mass oral cholera vaccinations
The outbreak of cholera in Zimbabwe intensified interest in the control and prevention of cholera. While there is agreement that safe water, sanitation, and personal hygiene are ideal for the long term control of cholera, there is controversy about the role of newer approaches such as oral cholera vaccines (OCVs). In October 2009 the Strategic Advisory Group of Experts advised the World Health Organization to consider reactive vaccination campaigns in response to large cholera outbreaks. To evaluate the potential benefit of this pivotal change in WHO policy, we used existing data from cholera outbreaks to simulate the number of cholera cases preventable by reactive mass vaccination.... A brisk response is required for outbreaks with the majority of cases occurring during the early weeks. Even a delayed response can save a substantial number of cases and deaths in long, drawn-out outbreaks. If circumstances prevent a rapid response there are good reasons to roll out cholera mass vaccination campaigns well into the outbreak. Once a substantial proportion of a population is vaccinated, outbreaks in subsequent years may be reduced if not prevented. A single dose vaccine would be of advantage in short, small outbreaks.
Authors
Languages
- English
Publication year
2011
Journal
PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases
Type
Journal article
Categories
- Service delivery
Diseases
- Cholera
Countries
- India
- Zimbabwe
Organisations
- World Health Organisation (WHO)
Tags
- New vaccine introduction
- Policy and legislation
WHO Regions
- African Region
- South-East Asia Region