Devika Mehra
India
Research Article
Incomplete Immunization Coverage in Delhi: Reasons and Solutions
Author(s): Shantanu Sharma, Charu Kohli, Nandini Sharma and Devika MehraShantanu Sharma, Charu Kohli, Nandini Sharma and Devika Mehra
Abstract Background: Immunization is considered as a cost-effective public health intervention to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with infectious diseases. This study was planned with an objective to find the reasons for defaulters of immunization in an urban resettlement area in Delhi. Methods: The study was conducted over a period of 6 months in four blocks of an urban resettlement colony in Delhi. Children who were not completely immunized as per records were tracked by the research team and caretakers were interviewed to find reasons for incomplete immunization, using a semi structured, pre tested questionnaire. Results: Out of 87 incompletely immunized children, only 44 could be traced. The reasons reported were non availability of vaccine at the centre, long waiting time and poor awareness of parents about importance of immunization despite the fact that most of th.. View More»
