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High Confidence

Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI)

Global, Global

The largest public health initiative in history, GPEI uses comprehensive communication strategies including community mobilization, interpersonal communication through health workers, and mass media to achieve polio vaccination coverage. The initiative has reduced polio cases by 99.9% since 1988 through sustained behavior change communication.

Behavior Goal

Increase polio vaccination acceptance and coverage, overcome vaccine hesitancy, build trust in immunization programs

Implementers & Partners

  • WHO
  • UNICEF
  • CDC
  • Rotary International
  • Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

Donors & Sponsors

  • Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
  • Rotary International
  • USAID
  • UK Government

Key Takeaways

  • 1Community health workers are critical for last-mile vaccine delivery
  • 2Religious and traditional leaders influence vaccine acceptance
  • 3Tailored messaging for resistant communities improves uptake
  • 4Sustained engagement over decades required for eradication

Sources

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