Cost-effectiveness of immunization strategies in Ecuador

The purpose behind the mass campaign, which gained wide popular and political support, was to accelerate immunization activities throughout the country and to complement services already provided by the Ministry of Health, the Social Security system, and private organizations. Results showed that the PREMI campaign contributed 13% to total immunization coverage of 64% and made significant contributions in vaccinating children less than two years of age. Cost analyses revealed that the average cost per dose was $0.29 for fixed facilities and $0.83 for the campaign. Total national costs were $653,000 and $1,667,000 for fixed facilities and the campaign, respectively. The cost per fully vaccinated child ranged from $4.77 for routine services to $8.13 for the PREMI campaign. On the basis of these figures, the authors conclude that the campaign, though more costly than routine services in fixed centers, had a strong impact on vaccination coverage of younger children who were previously missed by routine services. (Author abstract, modified)