Sustaining EPI: What Can Communication Do?

Communication activities in support of immunisation programmes have often focused on creating consumer demand. Mass media have helped mobilise propulations and rapidly increase coverage. But health communication can also address complex issues of long-term sustainability, hard-to-reach groups, and certain negative repercussions of high rates (such as diminishing concerns about the seriousness of disease).

This 17-page document, published in 1990, explores the role of communication in immunisation programmes, ways in which communication interventions can strengthen Expanded Programmes on Immunisation (EPI) (including consumer issues and service issues), and recommendations for EPI managers and donors. It also describes communication challenges common to immunisation programmes. The booklet concludes with a "Checklist for a Sound Communication Plan" and a glossary of communication terms.