A survey of missed opportunity for immunization in Lucknow

An exit interview of the women accompanying the children of 0-2 years visiting the three large urban hospitals and three randomly selected rural primary health centres of Lucknow district was undertaken to assess the magnitude of problem of missed opportunity for immunization at health facilities. The WHO suggested protocol for the study was followed. Observations reveal that in 59.1% children, the opportunity to vaccinate was missed. Only 3% children had a true contraindication for vaccination. Also 44.6% of women accompanying the children and in the reproductive age group could have been immunized against tetanus. A high level of acceptability of immunization in those with missed opportunity was noted.