Building Capacity Using Online Courses in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Report of the Paediatric Association of Nigeria Adverse Events Following Immunization Online Course

Abstract

Background: Adverse events following Immunisation (AEFIs) are a significant reason for vaccine hesitancy globally. The handling of an AEFI occurrence has implications not only for the patient but also for the immunisation program.

Objective: To evaluate the use of online capacity building on AEFI management, AEFI reporting and crisis communication among doctors.   

Methods: The Paediatric Association of Nigeria experts on immunisation developed a curriculum for the four-week course consisting of four modules. Each module was delivered through scheduled weekly 90-minute Zoom meetings, consisting of didactic lectures and breakout interactive sessions. During these sessions, case studies were used to illustrate the lecture content. The evaluation was conducted through pre- and post-test online assessments.

Results: Three courses were held in February, April and June of 2023. Attendance for each module ranged between 63 and 269 persons. Of 198 respondents, 30.3% (60/198) had received previous training on AEFI, 59.7% (151/198) had managed at least one case of AEFI, and only 13.4% (34/198) had ever reported one. The mean scores for the pre-test ranged from 1.14 to 3.05, while the post-test scores ranged from 2.16 to 3.88. There was a statistically significant improvement in scores between the pre-test and post-test for most modules. Improved knowledge was reported by 92.4% (171/185) after the training. Confidence in discussing AEFI with parents/caregivers increased to 98.4% (182/185) after the training, compared to 33% (61/185) at the beginning (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion: The AEFI online course successfully achieved capacity building among doctors in the management, reporting, and communication of AEFI.