IMMUNIZATION STATUS OF CHILDREN AT POF HOSPITAL: REASONS FOR PARTIAL AND NON-IMMUNIZATION

Immunization plays a significant role in the prevention of diseases and morbidity and mortality in children can be much reduced only by implementation and utilization of EPI (Expanded Program on immunization). Objectives: The objectives of the study were to determine the immunization status of children admitted to pediatric ward of tertiary care in POF hospital, Wah Cantt. the reasons for partial immunization and non-immunization. the sociodemographic factors that affect the immunization status. Design, duration of the study: The study was Descriptive, and duration was about 6 months Setting: Pediatric and Gynecology wards of POF Hospital Wah Cantt. Sampling technique: Convenient sampling Subjects and Methods: Our study included mothers of 18-24 months aged children who presented to POF Hospital Wah. A pre-tested structured questionnaire was filled by the students themselves. Results: 87.5% of children were completely immunized, 9.5% were partially immunized while 3% were not at all. 33.5% of the parents believed that there were side effects of vaccines. 44.5% of the parents thought that only oral polio vaccine was required and 17% considered it as bothersome. Health facility was inaccessible for19.5% individuals and 23% face non-availability of vaccines. Chi square test showed a significant association between educational status of father, mother and place of delivery with immunization status. Conclusion: The immunization status of the children was adequate and there was significant association between literacy status of father, mother and place of delivery with the immunization status. The reasons of non and partial immunization were inaccessibility, non-availability of vaccine, considering polio was the only required vaccine and inconvenience for the parents