Publication:

A study to assess the parent’s knowledge and attitudes on childhood immunization

Background Immunization has greatly reduced the burden of infectious diseases. Immunization prevents illness, disability and death from vaccine-preventable diseases including diphtheria, measles, pertussis, pneumonia, polio, rotavirus diarrhea, rubella and tetanus. Improving childhood vaccination coverage and timelines is a key health policy objective in many developing countries. Parent’s knowledge and their attitudes towards Immunization are likely to influence uptake.

Methods This is a descriptive study using a pre-tested, self-administered questionnaire pertaining to knowledge, attitudes of parents regarding immunization. The questionnaire was given to parents whose children were being immunized at a health center within a one month period.

Results About 90% of parents have the positive attitude towards immunization and 73% of parents have good knowledge about Immunization.

Conclusions Diseases like pneumonia, measles, pertussis that can be prevented by vaccination continue to be major contributors. Knowledge and attitudes of parents and socio cultural factor can influence the immunization status of the children.