PERCEIVED KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, AND BEHAVIOR OF PARENTS/CAREGIVERS TOWARDS ROUTINE IMMUNIZATION IN DISTRICT PISHIN, BALOCHISTAN PAKISTAN: A CROSS-SECTIONAL SURVEY

Abstract

Background: This study evaluates the perception, attitude, and behavior of parents/caregivers towards the vaccination of their child. vaccination is the greatest impactful steps, determining the real goal for public health.  

Material and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among the sample of 403 Parents/caregivers of children aged under 5 years by using a two-stage random sampling technique in the period between February to March 2022 in district Pishin of Baluchistan, Pakistan.

Results: Community health workers were used to administer the questionnaire to parents or caregivers, to seek information about 1) Socio-demographic characteristics 2) knowledge regarding vaccines and their types; 3) behavior regarding the administration of vaccination.  The knowledge regarding vaccine-preventable diseases was higher in parents who attend higher levels of education. HCPs were the primary source of information and the majority of sources are verbal. Parents/caregivers show a positive attitude toward vaccines and 59% are aware of vaccine importance and 39% are aware of childhood diseases with their names.

Conclusion: The positive attitude was significantly higher in those who considered vaccines boost immunity and protect against diseases. Greater attention from policymakers and healthcare providers is needed to increase the knowledge-seeking behavior of parents/caregivers on recommended vaccines and their importance on timeliness and completion to increase immunization coverage.

Keywords: Vaccine-preventable diseases, Immunization, Childhood