Innovative Methods to Overcome Barriers and Improve Immunization Coverage: A Comparative Study in Two Wards of Ahmedabad City

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Immunization is one of the most cost effective public health interventions since it provides direct and effective protection against preventable morbidity and mortality. Objectives: To identify the challenges and barriers associated with immunization coverage. Also to implement innovative strategies to overcome these challenges before session of Intensified Mission Indradhanush (IMI) and compare the coverage levels in areas with versus without use of innovative Mathod Two slum areas were selected from the South zone of Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) and out of those one was from UHTC of AMC MET Medical College which was the intervention area in this study. Families with incomplete immunization of children <2 years were included in the study. In intervention area, personal visit by investigator, one to one health education, mobile reminders and support of local influencers was taken to increase the coverage. Data of both the areas were collected in a pre-designed and pre-tested proforma and analysed. Qualitative analysis of reasons for not accepting immunization services was also carried out Result: Coverage of BCG, fIPV 1, OPV1 and Pentavalent-1 was 100% in both the areas. Coverage of OPV2 and Pentavalent-2 was 100% and 57% in intervention and non-intervention areas respectively. Overall coverage of all other vaccines was more in the UHC Isanpur which was the intervention area. Further even in the non-intervention area, more experience of ASHA was significantly associated with better coverage. Qualitative analysis revealed not informed about IMI round, fears and religious beliefs etc. as reasons for not accepting immunization services. Conclusion: Personal visits, Involvement of community leader, Motivation and mobile reminders about the round of IMI was highly effective in improving coverage of IMI from due list