Table 1 Criteria for the assessment of methodological quality

Sampling methodology

i) For cluster surveys, the number of clusters chosen should be ≥30 [14, 18, 19]

ii) Clusters are selected using probability proportional-to-population-size sampling (PPS) [14, 20]

iii) In the second stage of sampling, households are selected using systematic or simple random sampling methods (not Expanded Program on Immunization methods (EPI)) [21]

iv) Mortality data are collected from all selected households, irrespective of presence/absence of children < 5 years old

Presentation of sample size calculation

i) Separate sample calculations and mortality estimates [22]

ii) Parameters required for sample size calculation are transparent/reproducible

Statistical reporting of U5DR

i) Information required for the estimation of U5DR are reported

ii) U5DR is expressed as number of deaths per 10,000/day [13]

iii) Confidence limits for U5DR are reported