The COVID-19 pandemic led to a significant decline in basic immunization coverage in Kosovo, dropping from 92 percent in 2020 to 87 percent in 2021. Recognizing the urgency of this situation, UNICEF Kosovo with USAID’s support launched a public awareness campaign during the World Immunization Week 2023, which took place from April 23 to 30. The primary objective of the campaign was to encourage people of all ages to receive vaccines that protect against preventable diseases, in particular among children of Roma, Ashkali and Egyptian communities.
In light of persistent challenges in maintaining routine immunization rates, the awareness-raising efforts extended beyond the designated week. Recognizing the significance of targeting young parents, a street campaign was organized. This initiative featured stands manned by health care professionals who disseminated essential information and awareness materials about routine immunization. Furthermore, a catch-up immunization campaign was specifically tailored for the Roma, Ashkali, and Egyptian communities to identify unvaccinated children and provide them with vaccination opportunities.
With USAID support, World Immunization Week activities were led by the National Institute of Public Health and the Kosovo Ministry of Health in partnership with Action for Mothers and Children (AMC) and the Forum for Development and Multiethnic Collaboration (FDMC). These organizations actively carried out street campaigns and various other awareness-raising initiatives throughout Kosovo.
The campaign encompassed a wide range of activities in seven municipalities across Kosovo, including Prishtinë, Prizren, Gjakovë, Mitrovicë, Lipjan, Pejë, and Zubin Potok. The street campaign successfully engaged over 2,300 individuals, facilitating meaningful discussions with healthcare professionals and providing them with valuable insights into the importance of regular child immunization.
UNICEF for USAIDKosovo