KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICES TOWARDS IMMUNIZATIONFOR CHILDREN UNDER FIVE YEARS OF AGE - A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY

Introduction: Vaccines are sensitive biological products that help boost our immune system, and afford protection against various infectious diseases. Despite widespread immunization coverage being promoted, certain sections of the population either prefer not to get vaccinated, feeling it is unnecessary or fearing potential side effects, or are not aware of its benefits or can't afford them. This study assessed the Knowledge, Attitude and Practices towards Immunization for Children, among Mothers, who visited the Paediatrics OPD of SUT Academy of Medical Sciences. Methodology :- A cross sectional study was conducted on mothers of 100 children aged upto 5 years in the Paediatrics OPD of SUT Academy of Medical Sciences, Vattappara, Thiruvananthapuram. A semi structured questionnaire was prepared by the interviewers, and self administered by the mothers of the children attending OPD. Data entered in Microsoft Excel was analysed using SPSS software. Results :- 100% literacy rates were observed in the parents. Around 98% of the respondents felt that it is necessary to vaccinate their children, 94% of them agreed that vaccines helped prevent transmission of communicable diseases. 85% of the children were found to be fully immunized for their age, according to the National Immunization Schedule of the Government of India, while 15% of the children were partially immunized for their age. 66% of the respondents observed side effects post vaccination, such as fever, rashes, diarrhoea etc. Conclusion: Knowledge towards immunisation shows a very good progression as majority of the study participants believe that immunisation can help prevent the transmission of communicable diseases. Majority have a positive attitude towards vaccination, and felt that Immunisation helps to maintain good health. In recent times, electronic media and the efforts of health workers in raising awareness about the importance of immunisation has helped increase the immunisation rates.