• Objectives

1. To provide technical information and guidance to state and district program managers for the operational preparations for Rotavirus vaccine introduction.
2. To strengthen capacity of health workers for effective delivery of Rotavirus vaccine and Routine immunization.
3. To gain experience and appropriate input for the successful inclusion of Rotavirus vaccine into the immunization schedule.
4. To document the AEFI events linked to Rotavirus vaccination.

• Timeline

• Location

•  Methods

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, has decided introduction of Rotavirus vaccine in the country (as recommended by NTAGI), in a phased manner.

As an early experience before National Rotavirus vaccine introduction, Government of India, (DBT and MoHFW) wanted to undertake an implementation research for introducing the rotavirus vaccine in three districts (Pune, Kangra and Vellore).

The introduction of Rotavirus vaccine into the immunization schedule requires careful macro and micro planning at all levels. The project includes the following steps:

1. Development of operational manuals, training documents, tools and templates for monitoring at all levels.
2. Prepare the health facilities with cold chain and vaccine logistics situational analysis
3. Development of communication material for health functionaries
4. Updating the available immunization card for recording and reporting of Rotavirus vaccination.
5. Revising the micro plans for all the facilities using prescribed formats for UIP.
6. Conducting state and district level training and advocacy workshops:  all health staffs engaged in immunization at all levels have been trained using the specific training module on key aspects of vaccine storage, handling and mode of administration.
7. Supervision and Monitoring plan: A team of District, state and National observers shall be observing and monitoring all the activities in the states and districts where Rotavirus vaccine is being introduced. They shall guide and evaluate the progress and share their findings for further action.

• Expected Outcomes

The project shall provide with appropriate input and experience for the successful incorporation of Rotavirus vaccine into the immunization schedule.  Lessons learnt and best practices from the early implementation of the Rotavirus vaccine can be replicated in all over the country.