New vaccine introduction: checklist for planning communication and advocacy: World Health Organization vaccine safety supporting document

Overview

Vaccine-safety-related events, and how we respond to them, can affect public trust in vaccines and health authorities. These events may or may not be linked to vaccines and include: adverse events following immunization (‎AEFIs)‎, vaccination programme changes, or events that lead to increased negative public debate on the topic of immunization.

The guidance in this library was developed based on lessons learned in countries, as well as scientific evidence and research in the fields of psychology, social and behavioural science, and communication. It is intended to help stakeholders prepare for and avert possible crises, as well as to minimize the negative impacts of any event that has the potential to erode trust. This document proposes a simple step-wise process for planning communication and advocacy for a new vaccine introduction.

It includes suggested activities for four key stakeholder groups: health care workers influencers media public. Planning a detailed communication and advocacy strategy will help you: ensure stakeholder groups have a consistent knowledge of the facts and messages avoid or limit misperceptions; be prepared for vaccine safety events; facilitate high uptake of the new vaccine; build resilience against vaccine safety scares. Use the document for guidance and inspiration when introducing a new vaccine.

Use it early in the process, as communication needs to be planned and initiated well in advance of the introduction date.