Assessment of Complete Coverage of Expanded Program on Immunization in Children at Mayo Hospital Lahore, Pakistan

Background: The primary Goal of the expanded program on immunization (EPI) is to ensure full immunization of children under one year of age to globally eradicate poliomyelitis, tetanus, measles-related deaths and to extend all new vaccines and preventive health interventions to children in all parts of the world. Demographic and health survey 2012-13 showed that in Pakistan complete immunization coverage is very low (54%) to achieve this goal. The objective of this study was to assess any improvement in terms of vaccination coverage in Pakistan in the last 3-4 years. Material and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out at outpatient department of Pediatric Medicine of Mayo Hospital Lahore from May, 2016 till November, 2016. The non-probability purposive sampling technique was used to include patients after taking informed consent. Demographic details were collected and parents were questioned about different vaccinations received and confirmed through vaccination card. Data analysis was done through SPSS version 20 and results were presented as frequencies and percentages. Chi-square test was applied for association among categorical variables. Results: Complete coverage of expanded program on immunization was achieved in 86% children. A statistically significant difference was noted between mother’s education and immunization coverage of children (P-value 0.013). Conclusion(s): Education of mother and socioeconomic status were significant factors affecting immunization coverage. In order to meet target of 95% immunization coverage rate set by WHO, more awareness should be created among people with low socioeconomic status along with improvement of immunization facilities in these areas