Revolutionizing Child Health: The Vaccination Info System

Designer Lisa Scharoun's Innovative Approach to Child Vaccination

Scharoun's design is a color-coded vaccination card with integrated bracelets that serve as unique identifiers for children and the vaccinations they have received. Each bracelet corresponds to a specific vaccination period and is cut from the card at the time of vaccination. The vibrant colors serve as a constant visual reminder for parents to continue with their children's vaccination schedule.

The card also includes a section for personal details and a QR code that can be linked to an electronic medical records system. The card and bracelets are made from Tyvek, a durable, waterproof, and tear-resistant material, ensuring that the system is long-lasting and easy to use.

The design was inspired by traditional practices of placing bracelets or amulets on babies for protection against harm and disease. This concept aligns perfectly with the practice of vaccination, which also aims to protect babies from harmful and life-threatening illnesses. The bracelets, worn on the ankle, serve as a highly visible reminder of the need to return for further vaccinations.

The design was completed in October 2013 in Canberra, Australia, and was selected as a top 10 finalist and an award winner for "ability to add information" in the "Records for Life" competition by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. It was also displayed at the 2014 IxDA conference in Amsterdam in February 2014.

The Child Health & Vaccination Info System has proven to be an effective tool in reminding mothers to vaccinate their children and in keeping a lifelong documentation of their child's health and vaccination status. It is a testament to the power of design in addressing real-world challenges and making a significant impact on people's lives.