Evaluation of Immunization Coverage in the Rural Area of Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

BACKGROUND

In children, the leading cause of morbidity and mortality is infectious disease. Immunization is one of the most cost-effective methods for child survival. The purpose of the survey is to assess access and coverage of immunizations in the rural areas of the District Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

METHODS

A cross‑sectional study was conducted in a rural population area of District Peshawar from February 2016 to April 2016 using the WHO's 30 cluster sampling method for evaluation of immunization coverage.

RESULTS

A total of 390 children aged 12-23 months were included in the study. It was found that 67.94% of the children were fully immunized against vaccine-preventable diseases. Thirty percent of the children were partially immunized; the percentage of unimmunized children was 2.06%. Immunization cards were issued to and available with 58.8% of the subjects. The most common cause of partial immunization was a lack of information regarding vaccinations (27%). Immunization against measles was found to be low (67%). Those using private facilities were more likely to be completely immunized as compared to government facilities.

CONCLUSIONS

Immunization coverage in our survey was 68%. Sustained efforts are required to achieve universal coverage of immunization. Significant interventions are required, especially in areas that are more rural and less educated.