Knowledge, attitude and practice of immunization in an urban population

ABSTRACT

This study was conducted to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of mothers regarding Expanded Programme on Immunisation, [EPI] in an urban setting. A cross sectional survey was conducted in urban area of Hummak Town from January to March 2000. The study revealed that 88% of the parents had knowledge about EPI programme. The benefits of EPI were correctly enumerated by 77% of the parents. 92% of the parents had positive attitude towards EPI after some further information provided by the surveyor and 90% were ready to pay for it after knowing its benefits. Out of all respondents, 71% had immunized their children. Out of these 65% had complete vaccination and received all the doses. The most common reason for not immunizing the children was laziness [72%] on the part of the respondents. The other reasons for not vaccinating their children were non-cooperative husband, wrong concepts about EPI and poor quality of care at the health facility. This study concludes that there is need for more clear and appropriate health education messages regarding vaccination of children as well as adequate and quality outreach services of vaccination to counter the cause of laziness