Journal of Clinical Immunology and Allergy

Perceptions of caretakers towards IPV vaccine in New Delhi, India

European Congress on Vaccines & Vaccination and Gynecologic Oncology
October 26-27 ,2018 Budapest , Hungary

Akanksha Rathi and Panna Lal

Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar Medical College and Hospital, India

Posters & Accepted Abstracts: Journal of Clinical Immunology and Allergy

DOI: 10.21767/2471-304X-C2-006

Abstract

Introduction: Over the last many years, a number of new childhood vaccines have been introduced into national immunization schedules. One of the most recently introduced vaccines in India is injectable polio virus (IPV) vaccine. One factor that determines the smooth conduction of any immunization program in the wake of introduction of a new vaccine is the knowledge and attitude of parents of the target infant population. No study has been done in North India to know the KAP of parents/caregivers of the children towards the newly introduced IPV vaccine. Aim of Study: This study was conducted with an aim to know the gap in KAP of respondents towards introduction of IPV vaccine. Methodology: This is a cross-sectional study done in a healthcare center of East Delhi in Mar’-Apr’ 2016. A pre-tested and semi-structured questionnaire was administered (translated in native language) to all parents/respondents who came for the DPT-3 vaccine of their children. Results: Out of the total 71 infants included in the study, 35 (49.3%) were males. The mean age of the children was 4.6±1.27 months. When asked about the knowledge of national immunization schedule, only 41(57.7%) respondents said that they are aware of the schedule. While majority (n=55, 77.4%) of the respondents knew that vaccination should be started at birth, only 12 (16.9%) respondents knew about the last immunization dose to be given at 16 years. Then they were asked about their attitude towards mild adverse reaction following immunization (AEFI) like fever and swelling of site of vaccination. Majority (n=56, 78.8%) of the respondents said that mild AEFI is not worrisome and is definitely not a deterrent to future vaccinations. When asked about the current immunization session, only 20 (28.1%) respondents knew that their child has been given 3 injections. 16 (22.5%) respondents revealed that the healthcare provider has not given them any information about the new vaccine. Conclusion: The study reveals that though the attitude of parents towards immunization is majorly positive but the knowledge is lacking. The study also revealed that a substantial number of parents are not being made aware about the new vaccine being administered to their child that can have a negative impact on the immunization program.

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