Publication:

Comparative study of knowledge and practices of childhood immunization among health care providers in Meerut, India

Background Immunization laid a major milestone in preventive practices in childhood diseases and decreasing mortality rates. However, despite of such impressive immunization programme we are not able to achieve our targeted goals on time. Lack of awareness of immunization practices amongst our health care providers can be one of the reasons behind this.

Methods Total 300 participants were included in study divided into three groups A, B and C (pediatricians, allopathic practitioners and health providers at PHC respectively). A self-administered questionnaire in English comprising of questions related to knowledge and practices of immunization were given to all participants. Their responses were analyzed and assessed for level of knowledge in each field and then compared with other groups.

Results In the present study, nearly half of the participants were >50 yrs and it was observed that percentage of correct knowledge was decreasing with increasing age of participants. Correct immunization schedule was known by all the participants. Correct knowledge regarding immunization of unvaccinated child reporting at 1-2 years of age was maximum amongst group A and minimum amongst group C (P≤0.05). Correct knowledge about use of Refrigerator for vaccine storage and storage temperature of vaccine was also satisfactory in group A (92%) (p<0.001).

Conclusions After analyzing all responses we can fairly conclude from this study that overall knowledge of immunization practices amongst health care providers was not satisfactory which emphasizes on need of continuous training and supervision of health care providers dealing with immunization.