9.2.1  Conduct a communication needs assessment

First, it is important to talk to people to find out about attitudes to immunization in the community, in particular whether there is opposition to it. If there is some resistance to immunization, you need to ask why this has occurred. Discussion with members of women’s groups and youth groups in your kebele may help you to find answers to your concerns. You may be able to identify specific behaviour or attitudes that are creating a barrier to immunization in the community. Has there been an adverse incident in the past that has worried parents? Is there an opinion leader in the community who is opposed to immunization and has persuaded others to resist it? This communication needs assessment will help you to assess what strategies and activities to plan for this community.