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Pulse polio immunisation, 1995-96: an evaluation in West Bengal
I Saha1, S Dasgupta, A K Mandal
1Department of Community Medicine, NRS Medical College, Calcutta.
Journal of the Indian Medical Association
|November 5, 1999
Summary
The Pulse Polio Immunisation Programme (PPI) in West Bengal achieved 84.1% coverage but showed disparities. Lower uptake was observed in Muslim and Scheduled Tribe communities, often due to lack of information or faith in vaccines.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Health Services Research
Background:
- The Pulse Polio Immunisation Programme (PPI) was a critical initiative to eradicate poliomyelitis.
- Understanding coverage variations and barriers is essential for optimizing immunisation campaigns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the coverage and identify factors influencing participation in the 1995-96 PPI in West Bengal.
- To analyze demographic and socio-economic determinants of PPI uptake.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective evaluation of the Pulse Polio Immunisation Programme data from West Bengal (1995-96).
- Analysis of PPI coverage in relation to beneficiary age, sex, residential status, parental literacy, and community affiliation (Muslims, Scheduled Tribes).
Main Results:
- Overall PPI coverage reached 84.1% across two rounds.
- Significant disparities in coverage were noted, with lower uptake among Muslim (p < 0.001) and Scheduled Tribe (p < 0.01) populations.
- Multipurpose health workers were the primary information disseminators.
Conclusions:
- While the PPI achieved substantial coverage, specific community-based interventions are needed to address disparities.
- Key barriers to immunisation acceptance included lack of information, child's illness, absence on immunisation day, and vaccine hesitancy.
- Targeted strategies are required to improve PPI reach among vulnerable groups.