Vitamin A Supplementation and Deworming (VASD) for Children in Southern Côte d'Ivoire in the First Half of 2025

Abstract

Vitamin A deficiency remains a major public health problem in Côte d'Ivoire, particularly among children under five. To address this issue, biannual supplementation campaigns coupled with deworming are regularly organized to strengthen the prevention of malnutrition and parasitic infections. The 2025 post-event evaluation in the south of the country is part of these ongoing national child health efforts. Assess coverage levels and factors associated with vitamin A supplementation coupled with deworming in children aged 6 to 59 months during the first round of the June 2025 campaign, as well as changes compared to previous years. A post-event survey was conducted using a cross-sectional approach, combining structured interviews with parents and verification of health records. Data were collected in several representative health districts in southern Côte d'Ivoire. Key usage indicators analyzed included vitamin A coverage, deworming coverage, sociodemographic determinants, and associated logistics. In 20 districts surveyed, overall vitamin A coverage (87.6%) exceeded 80%, reaching the minimum threshold recommended for a significant impact on public health, with better specific coverage among children aged 12 to 59 months. This result marks an improvement over 2024, attributable to better community mobilization and increased availability of inputs. In contrast, deworming coverage (84.2%) remains slightly lower, reflecting disparities between districts, particularly in rural (78.4%) and peri-urban (82.1%) areas. The mother's level of education, proximity to health services (58%), and community awareness emerged as the main factors associated with better coverage. The evaluation reveals a notable improvement in vitamin A supplementation in southern Côte d'Ivoire in 2025, despite persistent regional disparities. Strengthening community strategies and increasing the use of digital monitoring tools are essential for sustainable integration and better quality future evaluations.