Knowledge Summary 25: Integrating immunization and other services for women and children

The Expanded Programme on Immunizations (EPI) has dramatically decreased childhood morbidity and mortality since its introduction in 1974, and now reaches over 85% of the world’s children. Some countries and regions are still working to achieve high coverage, however, and many non-vaccine programmes have not gained the same traction needed for maximum impact. Integrating service delivery, by providing a range of non-vaccine health interventions to families at the same time as an immunization visit, can create a programme foundation through which broad services can be equitably provided as well as give a beneficial boost to EPI coverage. While integration equires thoughtful and measured planning, the potential impact for families and communities is great.