COVID-19 VACCINATION ROLL OUT (SSA)
Support COVID-19 vaccination program implementation and coordination
Overview
Support COVID-19 vaccination program implementation and coordination
You have:
- At least a master’s degree in public health/vaccinology/epidemiology
- Familiarity with the Malawi EPI program and COVID-19 response is a plus
- Previous experience in conducting vaccination campaigns/new vaccine introduction
- Relevant work experience in WHO, other UN agencies, ministry of health; experience working in relevant non-governmental organizations
- Demonstrated knowledge of public health field work in the area of Extended Programme of Immunization
- Advanced English and local language in the area of assignment
Contract
This is a No grade contract. More about No grade contracts.
Background
Malawi had her first COVID-19 case on 2nd April 2020 and the CFR of 3.07. The COVID-19 vaccination started on 11 March 2021 inaugurated by His Excellency President of Malawi. Several strategies have been deployed so far including regular routine vaccination in fixed vaccination sites, Covid-19 vaccination express, Finish-A-Vial (FAV) campaign, house-to-house visit, mobile vaccination clinics are few of them to reach remotest population in country. The country is planning to conduct a national wide campaign to reach this wide age category complemented by use of outreach and mobile clinics and static health as part of routine immunization service delivery. The Malawi COVID-19 Vaccine deployment plan is aimed to contribute to the reduction of COVID-19 morbidity and mortality through an efficient and effective vaccination program. In Malawi, front line health workers and social workers, individuals with comorbidities and elderly population have been given priority to benefit from the vaccine. However, the country remained to be among of the 34 priority countries with low COVID-19 vaccination coverage with a COVID-19 vaccination coverage of 9.7% by 31 July 2022.
Justification
The existing EPI staff in WCO have been repurposed for wild poliovirus, cholera and COVID-19 outbreak activities on top of their usual duties putting a strain on the staff and affecting delivery of other key EPI programme outputs. The COVID-19 vaccination rollout remained important in reaching the NDVP milestones. On the other hand, the Ministry of Health needs support for the COVID-19 vaccination programme implementation. Strong coordination and planning at the national level is crucial in view of vaccine supply issues which necessitate continuous review of vaccination strategy including targeting of beneficiaries and technical guidance to the districts. WHO continues to play a key role in supporting government’s resource mobilization efforts. In addition to the existing EPI staff in WCO, there is therefore need for an additional staff who is conversant with the Malawi immunization and vaccine safety surveillance system. Beefing up the WCO team would assist to ease the high workload to support the MOH.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Support planning and coordination of covid-19 vaccination at all levels
- Support development of COVID-19 vaccination micro-plans
- Resource mobilization for covid-19 vaccination programme
- Provide technical support for COVID-19 vaccine safety monitoring
- Capacity building of health care workers including training, supportive supervision and mentorship
- Prepare and submit progress reports on the Covid-19 vaccination programme
- Support activities to ensure continuity of EPI activities in the context of Covid-19 pandemic
Any other duties as assigned by the supervisor
Qualifications, experience, skills and languages
Educational Qualifications
Essential: At least a master’s degree public health/vaccinology/ epidemiology
Experience
Essential: Familiarity with the Malawi EPI program and COVID-19 response is a plus
Desirable:
- Previous experience in conducting vaccination campaigns/new vaccine introduction.
- Relevant work experience in WHO, other UN agencies, ministry of health; experience working in relevant non-governmental organizations.
Skills/Knowledge
Demonstrated knowledge of public health field work in the area of Extended Programme of Immunization.
- Competencies:
- Teamwork
- Excellent communication skills
- Technical expertise
- Producing results
Languages and level required
Advanced English and local language in the area of assignment
Potential interview questions
| Can you describe your experience with vaccination campaigns in the past? | This question assesses your practicality and effectiveness in conducting vaccination efforts. | Provide specific examples of previous campaigns you were involved in, including your role and the outcomes. |
| How do you ensure effective communication among teams during health programs? | This question examines your teamwork and communication skills in health contexts. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| What strategies would you implement to improve COVID-19 vaccination coverage? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| How would you handle challenges in coordinating vaccination efforts at multiple levels? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| What are key considerations for monitoring vaccine safety effectively? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |