Factors Associated With Appropriateness of Vaccination Age Coverage For Measles Vaccine In Kufa District, Najaf Governorate, Iraq

Measles is one of the diseases that can be effectively managed with vaccination. Herd immunity is a concept that describes the situation where a large proportion of a population is vaccinated, resulting in high coverage rates. Measles infections persist at high levels in specific areas despite the general vaccination rates. Administering the vaccination at the recommended age is crucial for attaining protection and reducing the transmission of vaccine-preventable illnesses . Cross –sectional study was conducted from 1st of OCT .2023 until 25th of JAN. 2024 among mothers with their child aged 12-23 month. The purpose of this study was to assess age-appropriate measles vaccination coverage and associated factors. Collected data using pre-tested questionnaires also data on measles vaccination were taken from vaccination card.This study analyzed 388 mothers, revealing that the majority of father age were between 20-34y, with 41.2% having primary education. Mother age found to be 258(66.5%) between 20-34y .225(57.9%) of father occupation were free job and 334(86.1%) were house wife by occupation, the sex of child 201(51.8%) were found to be female .68.61% were vaccinated with measles vaccine on time, (29.38%) were delayed and (1.80%) were found to be unvaccinated. The education level, number of children in the family and child order are significantly associated with measles vaccination status of child. As we revealed that the proportion of individuals receiving the vaccine within the designated timeframe is below 70%. We should focus on enhancing on time of routine children immunization. This can be achieved by reinforcing existing techniques, developing new approaches, and emphasizing the media's role in promoting the significance of timely vaccine administration.