Top 5 Takeaways

1. Significant Increase in Vaccine Supply: From 2021 to 2023, COVID-19 vaccine doses received in the African Region increased from 321 million to 860 million, with 646 million doses administered.
2. Varying Coverage Across Countries: By the end of 2023, coverage with at least one vaccine dose varied significantly across countries, ranging from 0.3% to 89%, highlighting disparities in vaccine distribution and access.
3. Improvement in Primary Series Coverage: Coverage with a primary vaccination series increased from 7% to 32% by the end of 2023. Among older adults and healthcare workers in some countries, coverage was notably higher.
4. Integration into Routine Health Services: There’s a push for integrating COVID-19 vaccination into routine immunization and primary health care services to improve sustainability and pandemic preparedness.
5. Challenges and Limitations: The report identifies challenges such as logistical issues, political commitment, and public perception affecting vaccination rates. Additionally, incomplete data reporting complicates the assessment of vaccination coverage.

Original Article Author and Citation

Corresponding Author

Benjamin A. Dahl, bid5@cdc.gov

Suggested Citation

Doshi RH, Nsasiirwe S, Dahlke M, et al. COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage — World Health Organization African Region, 2021–2023. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2024;73:307–311. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7314a3 .

Summary

The report reviews the COVID-19 vaccine distribution and administration within the WHO African Region from 2021 to 2023, showing a marked increase in vaccine supply and coverage over the period, but with significant variability among countries. Efforts to integrate COVID-19 vaccination into routine health services are emphasized as crucial for improving coverage and pandemic preparedness.

Methods

Data for the study were collected from the WHO African Region’s regional database, including vaccine supply and administration figures across the 47 countries in the region, with particular attention on high-priority groups such as older adults and healthcare workers.

Discussion

While vaccine supplies have increased, achieving high coverage rates across the region remains challenging due to various factors including logistical issues, vaccine hesitancy, and the need for stronger health infrastructure and political support. Integrating COVID-19 vaccination with routine health services is seen as a vital strategy moving forward.

Conclusion

The necessity of continuing to prioritize and enhance COVID-19 vaccination efforts in the African Region is highlighted, especially focusing on high-risk groups and integrating vaccination efforts into broader health services for more sustainable outcomes.

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