Between August 4 and 6, 2014, officers from Chile’s Expanded Immunization Program (EPI) participated in a study tour in Argentina to observe follow-up campaign preparedness and planning at all levels.

The delegation traveled to Buenos Aires, Argentina and met with the country’s EPI Manager and immunization team to discuss campaign planning and responsibilities at national, sub-national and local levels; as well as technical guidelines for the health services network in which the private sector is involved. Other topics included standardized data entry into the information system while taking into account the implementation of a new vaccination registry; micro-planning; procedures for supervision, adverse events following immunization (AEFI) surveillance; rapid coverage of vaccination; and communication and social mobilization strategies.

The delegation also participated in a video conference with EPI managers from 23 provinces in Argentina and Buenos Aires city, members of the National Immunization Technical Advisory Group (NITAG) and key scientific societies to discuss campaign strategies, tactics, and technical guidelines.

The visit heralds new south-to-south efforts between countries of the Americas, as well as opening doors to future collaboration between the Americas and other regions of the world. It also underscores the Pan American Health Organization’s (PAHO) strategic role and fundamental support to measles and rubella elimination activities.