Operational analysis of school-based delivery models to vaccinate children against influenza

Large-scale immunisation programmes against seasonal influenza are characterised by logistical challenges related to the need for vaccinating large cohorts of people in a short amount of time. Careful operational planning of resources is essential for a successful implementation of such programmes. We focused on the process of child vaccination in schools and analysed the staffing and workflow aspects of a school-aged children vaccination programme in England. Our objectives were to document vaccination processes and analyse times and costs associated with different models deployed across England. We collected data through direct non-participatory observations. Statistical data analysis enabled us to identify potential factors influencing vaccine delivery time and informed the development of a tool to simulate vaccination sessions. Using this tool, we carried out scenario analyses and explored trade-offs between session times and costs in different settings. Our work ultimately supported the local implementation of school-based vaccination.

Automated summary

Large-scale immunisation programmes against seasonal influenza face logistical challenges in vaccinating large cohorts of people in a short amount of time. This study in England focused on child vaccination in schools, analyzing staffing and workflow aspects to document processes and analyze times and costs associated with different models. Data collection and statistical analysis helped identify factors influencing vaccine delivery time and informed the development of a simulation tool for vaccination sessions.