Routine Immunization Recommendations from the North Dakota Department of Health
Routine childhood immunization rates, including those for measles, polio, and meningitis, declined during the COVID-19 pandemic. The North Dakota Department of Health (NDDoH) recommends to implement activities to increase routine immunization rates.
Suggested activities include:
• Ensuring convenient access to vaccines, including nurse-only appointments, evening/weekend clinics, and childcare or school-based vaccinations. Administer vaccines during adolescent activity physicals.
• Participate in the Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program, which provides vaccines at no cost to children who are Medicaid-eligible, uninsured, American Indian or underinsured.
• Know your facility-level immunization coverage rates. The NDDoH Division of Immunization distributes quarterly vaccination rates to clinics enrolled in the VFC Program.
• Identify an immunization champion at your facility who is responsible for conducting activities to increase rates and is up-to-date on the latest immunization information.
• Implement prompts in electronic medical records to remind providers of recommended immunizations.
• Avoid missed opportunities and administer all vaccines a patient is due for when in the clinic.
• Schedule appointments for subsequent immunizations when the patient is at the clinic (i.e., schedule the 18-month appointment at the 12-month appointment).