Immunization coverage and its associated factors among children residing in project affected population's resettlement colonies in urban slum of Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

Abstract

Background: With the rapid urbanization and numerous infrastructure projects going on in cities, large number populations are affected by these development projects. Such Projects Affected People (PAP) is resettled in colonies where critical health services are often lacking. Immunization is one such preventive and promotive health services, which is often cited as one of the greatest public health achievement of 20 th century and has resulted in dramatic decrease in morbidity and mortality due to vaccine preventable diseases. However, effective protection against these vaccine preventable diseases requires 90-95% immunization coverage. This study was conducted to assess the immunization coverage in PAP resettlement area of urban slum in Mumbai and associated responsible factors. Methods: Immunization coverage was assessed with the help of the WHO’s 30cluster sampling method with a sample size of 210 children in the 12-23 months age group. Results: 90% children were completely immunized. The immunization coverage was highest for BCG (98.1%) and least for measles (90%). The most common reason for noncompliance was child’s illness at the time of scheduled vaccine dose. Conclusions: The Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) goal of 85% immunization coverage can be achieved by community based awareness activities, supplemented by patient friendly immunization services at the health centre.