Summary of CLH-BD Activities in 2024

In 2024, the Country Learning Hub for Immunisation Equity in Bangladesh (CLH-BD) continued its efforts to address immunization gaps, particularly focusing on zero-dose (ZD) and under-immunized (UI) children. The year was marked by key meetings, training programs, field research, and new publications.

Key Meetings & Stakeholder Engagement

CLH-BD held its 5th Monitoring Committee Meeting on November 3, 2024, chaired by the Additional Secretary of the Health Service Division. The meeting resulted in several critical decisions, including:

• Sharing analyzed DHIS2 data (2022-2023) on ZD and UI children with EPI stakeholders.
• Conducting field visits to implementation and Forcibly Displaced Myanmar Nationals (FDMN) research areas.
• Expanding E-tracker training in implementation research areas.
• Finalizing the schedule for the 2nd Co-Creation Workshop.

Throughout the year, four rounds of Sub-National Committee Meetings were held in Sherpur, Gaibandha, Noakhali, Rangamati, Sunamganj, and Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC). These meetings focused on monitoring progress and addressing operational challenges, such as vaccine shortages, extending evening vaccination sessions, and prioritizing ZD/UI children for immunization.

Research & Field Assessments

• A Social Mapping and Household Survey was conducted in Rohingya camps in Ukhiya, Teknaf, and Bhasan Char from June to December 2024 to assess ZD/UI children among the FDMN population and host communities.
• Data collection began on October 7, 2024, and is set to be completed by the end of December.

Training & Capacity Building

• Newly recruited Health Assistants and Nurses received training in Dowarabazar, Sunamganj, on September 6, 2024, as per the Sub-National Committee’s decision.
• Additional training programs focused on E-tracker system implementation to improve immunization tracking and data management.

Publications & Knowledge Sharing

In 2024, CLH-BD published several research papers, including:

1. “Prevalence and Factors Associated with Zero-Dose and Under-Immunized Children in Bangladesh” (May 10, 2024) – Identified key socio-economic factors influencing immunization gaps.
2. “Measuring Zero-Dose Children: Reflections on Age Cohort Flexibilities for Targeted Immunization Surveys” (February 14, 2024) – Discussed improved ZD measurement strategies across multiple countries.
3. “Identifying Zero-Dose and Under-Immunized Children in Bangladesh: Approaches and Experiences” (October 28, 2024) – Highlighted key determinants affecting immunization coverage.

In 2024, CLH-BD strengthened its commitment to immunization equity through strategic collaborations, field research, and evidence-based interventions. The focus on zero-dose children, community-driven solutions, and innovative tracking mechanisms positions Bangladesh to further close immunization gaps in the coming years.

Download CLH Highlights Newsletter 2024