The Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) brought together frontline workers in Santa for a crucial workshop. At the heart of the discussions: strengthening epidemiological surveillance and integrating digital tools such as the Open Data Kit (ODK).
Family photo.
Ensuring the effectiveness of vaccination campaigns goes beyond administering a dose; it requires rigorous monitoring and complete transparency. This was the focus of the two-day training workshop held on June 25 and 26, 2026, in the Santa health district. Organized by the Northwest Regional Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI), this event mobilized surveillance focal points, clinicians, and vaccination agents from various health facilities in the region.
For 48 hours, under the guidance of experts from the national and regional Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) teams, participants were immersed in the protocols for detecting, managing, and reporting Vaccine-Preventable Diseases (VPDs) and Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFIs).
The digital shift with open data kit (ODK)
One of the key components of this session was mastering Open Data Kit (ODK). This mobile data collection platform represents a major technological leap for the region. By enabling real-time recording and reporting of AEFI cases, ODK eliminates traditional administrative delays. For field teams, this means that an allergic reaction or unusual side effect can be reported instantly to health authorities, triggering an investigation and an immediate response. The key challenge is to reduce the time lag between the detection of an adverse event and public intervention to mitigate risks.
Enhanced skills to maintain trust
At the end of the training, the facilitators’ expectations were clear. The trained professionals must now be able to master the mapping of EPI vaccines, correctly classify each incident according to national guidelines, and, above all, conduct thorough investigations in the event of serious side effects.
This initiative is part of the Ministry of Public Health’s overall strategy. In a region sometimes facing challenges in accessing healthcare, strengthening epidemiological surveillance is vital. By demonstrating that every vaccine distributed is rigorously monitored, the authorities intend to put an end to misinformation, reassure the population, and sustainably consolidate public trust in immunization services. This is another step towards total and safe vaccination coverage in the Northwest.
