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Expanded programme of immunization in Karachi
Insights
Low vaccination rates in Karachi children were observed, with lack of information and motivation being key barriers. Improving maternal and child immunization requires targeted health education and outreach programs.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Childhood immunization is crucial for preventing infectious diseases.
- Understanding immunization coverage and barriers is essential for public health interventions.
- Maternal immunization status also plays a role in child health outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the immunization status of children under 5 years and their mothers in Karachi.
- To identify the primary reasons for incomplete immunization in the targeted population.
- To inform strategies for improving vaccination uptake.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study conducted over two months (August-September 1993) at the Civil Hospital, Karachi.
- Data collected from 624 children under 1 year, 955 children aged 1-5 years, and 1579 mothers.
- Questionnaires were used to gather information on immunization history and reasons for non-vaccination.
Main Results:
- Vaccination rates varied significantly by vaccine and age group. For children under 1 year, BCG, DPT (3 doses), and measles coverage was 75%, 35%, and 23% respectively.
- For children aged 1-5 years, coverage for BCG, DPT (3 doses), and measles was higher at 84%, 63%, and 58% respectively.
- Maternal tetanus toxoid (2 doses) coverage was 47% for mothers of children under 1 year and 64% for mothers of children aged 1-5 years. Lack of information and motivation were the predominant reasons for not vaccinating.
Conclusions:
- Significant gaps exist in childhood immunization coverage in Karachi, particularly for DPT and measles vaccines.
- Maternal immunization rates also indicate areas for improvement.
- Addressing lack of information and motivation through targeted health education is critical to enhance vaccination rates.
Abstract:
Immunization status of children and their mothers and reasons for their failure to be immunized were studied. The study lasted for two months, i.e., August and September, 1993 at the Paediatric Outpatient Department of Civil Hospital, Karachi. Three groups of patients were targeted. Six hundred and twenty-four children under 1 year of age, 955 children between the ages of 1 to 5 years and 1579 mothers were registered. These women were questioned regarding their immunization status and that of their children. In the group below 1 year of age, BCG, DPT and polio (3 doses) and measles were given to 75%, 35% and 23% respectively. Tetanus toxoid (2 doses) was given to 47% of their mothers. In the group of children between 1-5 years, BCG, DPT and polio 3 doses and measles were given to 84%, 63% and 58% respectively. Tetanus toxoid (2 doses) were given to 64% of their mothers. The main reasons for not vaccinating were lack of information and lack of motivation.