CDC-RFA-IP-25-0007 Strengthening Vaccine-Preventable Disease Prevention and Response in North Dakota - The NDDHHS Immunization Unit’s vision is to ensure all North Dakotans are fully immunized and protected against vaccine-preventable diseases. The Unit’s mission is to protect the health of North Dakotans by preventing and mitigating vaccine-preventable diseases through immunization, by managing immunization resources and immunization information systems, and by identifying and promoting evidence-based public health best practices. The North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services (NDDHHS) is requesting funding to conduct activities to improve and sustain immunization coverage, reduce disparities in rates, ensure access to vaccines, respond to vaccine-preventable diseases, and improve vaccine confidence amongst North Dakotans of all ages. This initiative is designed to harness evidence-based strategies and foster impactful partnerships, ensuring that efforts are actionable, measurable, and capable of making a significant difference in increasing immunization coverage across North Dakota. The NDDHHS will maintain the infrastructure and management of the Immunization Unit to effectively oversee funding and ensure completion of all required activities. The Immunization Unit will continue to support a network of enrolled providers to administer Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program vaccines, while ensuring healthcare providers receive proper education on vaccine storage and handling, immunization recommendations, vaccine safety, and VFC program accountability. Immunization coverage rates will be monitored through the North Dakota Immunization Information System (NDIIS), with an emphasis on identifying and addressing disparities. Efforts will be made to educate healthcare providers, the public, and other key stakeholders to enhance understanding and build vaccine confidence. The NDDHHS Immunization Unit, in collaboration with partners, will also respond to vaccine-preventable diseases and maintain preparedness for emergency situations. A collaborative approach, including funding key partners and engaging stakeholders, will guide the program. Evidence-based practices will be employed, and ongoing program evaluation will be used to assess and enhance effectiveness.
