Maternal knowledge and perceptions aboutthe routine immunization programme--a study in a semiurban area in Rajasthan.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Pediatrics
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Immunization is a cornerstone of child health, preventing numerous vaccine-preventable diseases.
• Understanding immunization coverage and associated factors is vital for targeted public health interventions.
• Gaps in immunization schedules can leave children vulnerable to serious illnesses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess immunization coverage among children aged 12-24 months in Pilani.
• To evaluate mothers' knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, and expectations (KAPE) regarding immunization.
• To identify barriers and facilitators to completing the vaccination schedule.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 166 mothers in Pilani.
• Utilized a pre-tested interview schedule/questionnaire to gather data on KAPE.
• Analyzed immunization status for children aged 12-24 months.

Main Results:

• 50% of children were fully immunized, 31.3% partially, and 18.7% not immunized.
• High initial vaccination rates contrasted with lower completion rates for OPV3/DPT3 (62.7%) and measles (51.8%).
• Mothers generally had positive attitudes but limited specific knowledge on completing schedules and other vaccine-preventable diseases.

Conclusions:

• Significant gaps exist in completing immunization schedules, necessitating targeted interventions.
• Maternal knowledge deficits and misconceptions are key barriers to full immunization.
• Interpersonal communication strategies are recommended to enhance maternal understanding and overcome obstacles to immunization.