Vaccine coverage estimation using global positioning system can improve vaccination campaigns. Using cellular networks, field-based teams of vaccinators can report how many doses they have administered and barriers they have encountered. This allows managers to better monitor the progress of a campaign and respond to any challenges that might arise. Daily reports can also be used to inform next campaign strategies or to extend activities. In addition, this method can be applied to any type of population, regardless of location.
Vaccine coverage estimation using GIS can help reduce the costs of immunization. Its use is limited by the lack of publicly available datasets and insufficient documentation. However, several datasets are available to the public. MICS, DHS, and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation are three organizations that use such files. Increasing access to anonymized data should be a top priority for WHO.
The use of GIS tracking is not without its limitations. While this method helps to determine the geographic coverage of vaccination campaigns, it cannot directly translate into actual vaccination of children. Another drawback of this approach is that the geographic coverage of a population may not be reflective of the number of children vaccinated. This results in a lack of accountability, poor recording, and non-compliance. These challenges range from operational to technical.
Geospatial technologies can also assist immunization managers in making targeted decisions. Satellite images combined with statistical modelling and sampled survey information allow for precise population estimates. These population estimates can be complemented with data on vaccination service posts and roads and transportation infrastructure. These datasets also allow supervisors to determine how well the immunization teams have covered an area. This data is critical to improving the effectiveness of immunization programs.
Using the Global Positioning System, the authors estimate the coverage of vaccines in different countries. Using the Global Positioning System to assess coverage is more efficient than using a conventional survey. The estimates show the geographical location of vaccines and the level of vaccination in a country. The corresponding CDR for an entire month is zero, while the average for a month is one. The authors attribute this result to the high quality of data.
The study identifies areas where vaccine coverage is low or nonexistent. By using the Global Positioning System, the authors estimate the coverage of vaccines in these areas. The estimated coverage of vaccinations in a particular area is determined by the location of the vaccinations. The data collected through the GPS is accurate to a small scale and could be inaccurate. It will also be reliable and accurate. In addition, it will enable healthcare providers to track vaccinations in the most timely manner.
