Childhood vaccine coverage rates are not optimal for controlling vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs), as outbreaks of VPDs occur from time to time globally. To address this gap, many countries have enacted and strengthened childhood vaccination programs, which are often mandatory. Mandatory vaccination programs are often controversial because they may reduce or eliminate individual choice. A standard approach for evaluating the mandatory vaccination program is not available. Vaccine types, target age groups, program rigidity, incentives or penalties, enforcement, and compensation mechanism for adverse events following immunization vary across the world. This article reviewed the mandatory childhood vaccination, and presented examples to illustrate the variations among different programs, outcomes, and key considerations when contemplating these programs. Before implementing mandatory childhood vaccination programs, it is critical to ensure financial sustainability, a steady supply of vaccines, equitable access for all target population, and tailored implementation to fit the local culture and context.
Conflict of interest statement
The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest.
Funding
This study was funded by medical and health science and technology project of Zhejiang province (Grant number: 2023KY633).
Data availability statement
The data supporting the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon request.
Authors’ contributions
Shen JY and Hu Y concepted and designed of the study. Chen FX and Luo XF acquired the data. Ji C and Shen JY analyzed and interpretated the data. Hu Y drafted the article. Shen JY contributed to the final version to be submitted. All the authors have read and approved the manuscript.
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