Resources for Planning and IPV Introduction

"Successful IPV introduction relies on effective planning with measurable outcomes and processes. Key components of planning include vaccine procurement and supply, cold chain and logistics, health worker training, communications, and social mobilization."

On this section of the World Health Organization (WHO) website, the practitioner can find communication materials to support countries preparing to introduce inactivated polio vaccine (IPV), a suite of training materials for health workers on IPV, and guidance on related aspects of vaccine administration and interpersonal communication (IPC).

The modules cover a range of topics specific to IPV and across all aspects of service delivery, including eligibility, administration, recording and monitoring data, adverse events monitoring, and communication with caregivers. Also included are key messages and frequently asked questions to support understanding by health workers of the rationale for IPV introduction, IPV safety, timing of administration, as well as how to respond to common questions from caregivers.

Developed by the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), a training curriculum for increasing IPC skills for the introduction of IPV is also available as part of this resource. The curriculum was developed to facilitate group health education with the help of visual aids, flip charts, flash cards, and posters; it also includes an emphasis on participatory and learn-by-doing exercises.

Under the "Communications and Social Mobilizations" area, there is: (i) a media kit designed to support countries and regions in preparing the various media activities related to IPV introduction. It contains guidance on how to write a press release and organise a press conference, as well as sample key messages and frequently asked questions that may be used for spokesperson trainings. The contents can be adapted to the local context as applicable. (ii) an issues management guide, which can be used to help identify an unexpected event, evaluate its potential impact, and develop an appropriate communications strategy to minimise potential consequences - e.g., to address potential fall-out (e.g., situations affecting confidence in immunisation in general or IPV specifically).

All training materials are designed so that regional and/or country offices can adapt the content according to local needs and norms. French versions will also be available.