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Pediatric immunization practices vary significantly, with many pediatricians using non-standard schedules for vaccines like OPV and BCG. This lack of uniformity highlights diverse approaches to pediatric vaccination regimens.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Immunology
- Public Health
Background:
- Immunization is crucial for child health.
- Standardized vaccination schedules are recommended by health organizations.
- Variations in practice can impact herd immunity and disease prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate current immunization practices among pediatricians.
- To identify variations in vaccine dosing and scheduling.
- To understand pediatrician adherence to established vaccination guidelines.
Main Methods:
- A postal survey was distributed to pediatricians.
- Response rate was 43.2% (108 out of 250).
- Survey focused on practices for Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV), BCG, and Measles/MMR vaccines.
Main Results:
- Significant variation in the number of OPV doses (3, 4, or 5) and booster doses administered.
- Wide range in the age for OPV booster doses, extending beyond 5 years for some.
- Inconsistent practices for BCG and Measles/MMR booster doses, with some given to adolescents.
- Varied intervals (4-6 weeks) recommended between OPV doses.
Conclusions:
- Pediatricians exhibit diverse immunization schedules for multiple vaccines.
- Lack of uniform practice observed even within the same institutions.
- Findings suggest a need for further research into factors influencing these variations and their clinical implications.
Abstract:
A postal survey regarding immunization practices amongst pediatricians was conducted. Out of 250 contacted, 108 responded (43.2%). The responders consisted of senior pediatricians, out of which 31 were serving or were retired Professors of Pediatrics from various Medical Colleges (27.7%). The survey showed that 20.4% give 3 doses of OPV during the first year, 18.5% give 4 doses and 61.1% give 5 doses. Only 11.1% give one "booster" dose of OPV, 72.2% give 2, 13% give 3 and 3.7% give 4 or more "booster" doses. Only 11.1% give "booster" doses upto the age of 2 years, 76.9% upto 5 year, while 12% give "booster" doses beyond the age of 5 years--some upto 14 years of age. Thirty six per cent advice 4 weeks and 36.1% advice 4-6 weeks interval between 2 OPV doses. Nearly one fifth (22.7%) give BCG "booster" doses upto 5 years of age and 6.5 give "booster" to adolescents. Thirteen per cent give Measles/MMR vaccines booster dose beyond the age of 2 years upto 16 years. This study shows that pediatricians follow different schedules and regimes for almost all the vaccines. Often similar schedules are not practised by pediatricians working in the same institutions.