Frequency of Completely Immunize Children According to Expanded Program on Immunization (Epi) of Age 1-5 Years
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Background: Vaccination is an important and economical way to lower mortality and prevent childhood illnesses. Even with the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) in place in Pakistan, a sizable fraction of kids still lacks adequate vaccinations. Objective: The objective of this study was to ascertain the prevalence of full vaccination among children between the ages of one and five as well as the main obstacles affecting vaccination uptake. Methods: A qualitative investigation was carried out at a Quetta tertiary care facility. 120 parents of children ages 1 to 5 were selected at random and interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire. We gathered and thematically examined data on immunization status, EPI knowledge, and perceived difficulties. Findings: According to EPI criteria, only 56.7% of children received all recommended vaccinations. Lack of knowledge (72.5%), the distance to immunization facilities (51.7%), fear of adverse effects (37.5%), false information, and financial limitations were common obstacles. For about half of the caregivers, their main source of information was healthcare professionals. Conclusion: The results show that structural, educational, and cultural hurdles have resulted in notable discrepancies in vaccine coverage. To increase immunization rates, it is imperative to improve community-level engagement, service accessibility, and public health education.
Authors: Mahal Noor, Habibullah Babar, Wajeeha Kiran, Muhammad Hussain, Muhammad Ibrahim, Komal, Sana Ullah Kakar
Language: English
Subfield: Health
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4409773926