Use of m-Health in polio eradication and other immunization activities in developing countries

Introduction: Reaching the children that are chronically missed by routine immunization services has

been a key pillar of success in achieving progress toward polio eradication. The rapid advancement

and accessibility of mobile technology (‘‘mHealth”) in low and lower middle income countries provides

an important opportunity to apply novel, innovative approaches to provide vaccine services. We sought

to document the use and effectiveness of mHealth in immunization programs in low and lower middle

income countries. We particularly focused on mHealth approaches used in polio eradication efforts by

the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) to leverage the knowledge and lessons learned that may

be relevant for enhancing ongoing immunization services.

Methods: In June 2016, the electronic database PubMed was searched for peer reviewed studies that

focused on efforts to improve immunization programs (both ongoing immunization services and supplemental

immunization activities or campaigns) through mobile technology in low and lower middle

income countries.

Results: The search yielded 317 papers of which 25 met the inclusion criteria. One additional article was

included from the hand searching process. mHealth was used for reminder and recall, monitoring and

surveillance, vaccine acceptance, and campaign strategic planning. Mobile phones were the most common

mobile device used. Of the 26 studies, 21 of 26 studies (80.8%) reported that mHealth improved

immunization efforts.

Conclusion: mHealth interventions can effectively enhance immunization services in low and lower middle

income countries. With the growing capacity and access to mobile technology, mHealth can be a powerful

and sustainable tool for enhancing the reach and impact of vaccine programs.