THE INTRODUCTION OF HAEMOPHILUS-INFLUENZAE TYPE-B IMMUNIZATION INTO THE UNITED-KINGDOM - PRACTICAL STEPS TO ASSURE SUCCESS

Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccine was introduced into the ro utine childhood immunization program in the UK in October, 1992. The i mplementation was coordinated on a national basis, taking account of m arket research of the information needs of both the public and health professionals. Vaccine distribution arrangements were linked to the sc heduling of children for immunization, which was implemented through a national computerized system of calling children for immunization. Al l children commencing immunization were called for three doses of Hib vaccine. Children <1 year of age were called back for three doses of v accine; children >1 but <4 years were called for one dose. No boosters were given. National coverage from the outset of the campaign exceede d 90%; it is now 95% and the incidence of invasive Hib infection has d eclined by >95%. Some of the lessons learned from the UK introduction may be of relevance to other countries presently considering the imple mentation of Hib immunization into their routine immunization programs .