RISK FACTORS OF NON-VACCINATION IN A HOSPITAL SAMPLE OF IRAQI CHILDREN

Abstract

Background: Inadequate vaccination against childhood diseases is a significant public health problem. The reasons for incomplete vaccination are variable. Aim: The study aimed at finding out the factors correlating with non-vaccination in children less than six years of age. Subjects and Methods: Mothers of children, aged 1 month to 72 months (N = 545) were interviewed for vaccination status and causes of non-vaccination if present in a cross-sectional study over a period of seven months from 1st April 2014 to 30th October 2014, in the Central Child Teaching Hospital/ Baghdad. The health card was utilized to check for completeness of vaccination up to age according to the national schedule. Children have divided into two groups; group A was the group of vaccinated children, group B was the non or incompletely vaccinated children.

Results: out of 545 children studied; 374 (68.7%) had completed their vaccination up to date and 171(31.3%) were either incompletely vaccinated, or non-vaccinated. In a comparison of the vaccinated group and the unvaccinated group; the unvaccinated group had no sex predilection with high rural residence (P = 0.000), the majority of children were below 9 months (P = 0.000), significant father's illiteracy (P = 0.006) and self-employment (P = 0.000). While the mothers of children were young (P = 0.012), and illiterate (P = 0.000). In the unvaccinated group; there was a highly significant number in fathers aged 30 to <40 yr age group, who had secondary school level, and self-employed (P=0.000). While mothers were in a highly significant number in 20 - <30 yr age group, had a primary school level and were unemployed (P=0.000). Acute illness and chronic illness of children less than 9 mo, and 9 mo to <18mo, were the commonest causes of none or incomplete vaccination. While acute illness and family trend of non-vaccination in children aged 18 months to 72 months were the commonest causes. Conclusion: The immunization status needs to be improved increasing awareness, and counseling of parents through primary health care centers, public media education about immunizations, its side effects, and the associated misconceptions. Taking measures to prevent and treat acute and chronic illnesses, especially during the 1st nine months of life, through improving general socioeconomic, educational status of families. Improving the security situation in the country through political settlements and banning of military conflicts, would have a positive direct impact on family economic stability and minimizing early marriages before completion of parental education.