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Study Reveals Gaps in Childhood Vaccination Across Laos

This Week

Nearly 15 percent of children aged 12-23 months in Laos remain unvaccinated, according to a study shared on 20 September by the Faculty of Public Health at the University of Health Sciences. 

The study highlights significant gaps in immunization coverage, particularly among ethnic minority groups and in hard-to-reach communities, where access to healthcare remains limited.

Supported by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the Vaccine Alliance (GAVI), the study examined caregivers, communities, and health providers in Vientiane, Sekong, and Oudomxay provinces to uncover barriers preventing children from receiving life-saving vaccines. 

Researchers identified multiple challenges, including long distances to health facilities, poor road conditions, cultural practices restricting newborn mobility, vaccine stockouts, irregular outreach, and weak communication between health workers and caregivers.

Associate Professor Vanphanom Sychareun, Dean of the Faculty of Public Health, said the findings demonstrate the need for targeted, equity-focused interventions that strengthen service delivery and empower communities, stressing that no child should be left behind.

Meanwhile, Somchai Lathsavong, Vice President of the University of Health Sciences, noted that the Ministry of Health welcomed the findings and would intensify efforts to reach disadvantaged communities. 

He added that the Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to removing barriers and protecting every child against preventable diseases.

The study also highlighted solutions, pointing to the crucial role of trusted health workers, community volunteers, and village leaders in guiding families to complete vaccination schedules. 

UNICEF Deputy Representative Magali Romedenne described the research as a roadmap for action. 

She emphasized the importance of stronger outreach, consistent vaccine supply, and improved engagement between health workers and caregivers to help Laos reach its national target of 95 percent immunisation coverage and align with the global Immunisation Agenda 2030.

“Pink Book” Tools Boost Vaccine Awareness

Despite the challenges in reaching hard-to-reach and low-literacy communities, the Ministry of Health launched new “Pink Book” resources on 19 May, with support from the World Health Organization, UNICEF, Gavi, and the Australian Government. 

These tools, designed for low-literacy populations and ethnic minorities, include animated videos and infographic-style flashcards covering key vaccines and vaccine-preventable diseases.

Viengkhan Phixay, Deputy Director General of the Department of Hygiene and Health Promotion, said the materials provide healthcare workers and community leaders with clear, visual tools to explain vaccine safety and importance, particularly in areas facing language or literacy barriers.

The “Pink Book”, trusted by Lao parents for decades, now comes alive through engaging videos and visual aids. The Ministry indicated that it hopes these resources will strengthen community outreach and help every child in Laos access timely, life-saving vaccines.

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