Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Pediatric Society (IDAI) is strengthening collaboration with its partners to address various challenges in implementing childhood immunization.These efforts were discussed at a workshop held with the International Pediatric Association in Jakarta on Friday, focusing on expanding immunization coverage, addressing vaccine hesitancy, and combating misinformation.
IDAI Chair Piprim Basarah Yanuarso said the complexity of immunization issues, ranging from logistical barriers to socio-cultural factors, requires joint efforts and innovation.
He emphasized that immunization is a cost-effective health intervention that can save many children’s lives, yet its implementation continues to face medical, social, and cultural challenges.
The workshop, which centered on immunization advocacy, examined multidimensional obstacles, including vaccine distribution in remote and island regions, the management of post-immunization incidents, cases of double injections, and public skepticism about the benefits of vaccination.
Strategies to build stakeholder support through cultural approaches and the use of social media for effective health communication were also highlighted.
International Pediatric Association Executive Director Naveen Thacker stressed the important role of pediatricians and health workers as trusted sources of information in countering misinformation about vaccines and immunization.
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He said the active involvement of national pediatric associations like IDAI is crucial to leading scientific communication that is accurate, clear, and empathetic.
Thacker noted that the experiences and innovations shared at the workshop are valuable not only for Indonesia but also for the global child health community in strengthening health resilience, which he described as a foundation for a nation’s progress.
The workshop also discussed solutions for vaccine distribution in remote areas, communication strategies to help parents understand the importance of immunization, community empowerment, and the use of local wisdom to improve vaccine acceptance.
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Strengthening the capacity of health workers to correct misinformation was another key topic.The event is expected to produce policy recommendations, communication strategies, and innovative service models needed to improve national immunization coverage.
Expanding coverage is considered essential to protect Indonesian children from vaccine-preventable diseases and ensure the development of a healthy and high-quality generation.
