Evaluation of immunization practices in Naples-Italy

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Vaccination coverage is crucial for child health and disease prevention.
• Tracking vaccination rates over time helps assess public health interventions.
• Socioeconomic factors can influence healthcare access and vaccination uptake.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare oral polio vaccine (OPV) coverage in Naples between two birth cohorts (1983 and 1995).
• To identify trends in OPV vaccination timeliness and completion rates.
• To investigate the association between socioeconomic status and vaccination coverage.

Main Methods:

• A survey was conducted in Naples, Italy, assessing vaccination status of children born in January 1995.
• Data were compared with a previous survey of children born in June 1983.
• Vaccination coverage and timing for OPV doses were analyzed, along with socioeconomic factors.

Main Results:

• First dose OPV coverage by 4 months increased by approximately 26% in the 1995 cohort compared to the 1983 cohort.
• Third dose OPV coverage by 13 months was 49% in the 1995 cohort versus 33% in the 1983 cohort.
• Primary vaccination cycle completion by 24 months was 86% for the 1995 cohort, up from 65% for the 1983 cohort.
• Fourth dose OPV coverage by 3 years was 80% in the 1995 cohort.
• A significant association was observed between socioeconomic status and vaccination coverage levels.

Conclusions:

• Oral polio vaccine (OPV) coverage rates and timeliness improved significantly in Naples between the 1983 and 1995 birth cohorts.
• Socioeconomic status plays a significant role in determining vaccination coverage.
• Continued monitoring and targeted interventions may be necessary to ensure equitable vaccination access.