Philippine E-Journals

A cross-sectional study on the knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) of mothers and caregivers on immunization in Quezon City

Ryana Anjela D. Quero | Pamela Agatha A. Puno | Anne Marie P. Qua | Robert John T. Quiroz | Timothy Jorge L. Quenery | Pristine Joy B. Polido | Lia Veronique S. Priela | Gunjan V. Prithiani | Melvin V. Prudente Jr. | Joselle C. Pua | Grace E. Brizuela

 

Abstract:

Introduction Despite establishing immunization as an effective approach, the number of deaths from immunizable diseases among 0 to 14 years old remained high in 2012. This prompted the researchers to determine the knowledge, attitude and practices of mothers/caregivers regarding the immunization of their children. Methods The research utilized a descriptive cross-sectional design. An interviewer-guided validated questionnaire was administered to mothers and caregivers with at least one child 12 months or younger who was eligible for immunization. Results Around half of the 211 respondents were aged 20-35 years old, married and living in their own home. A large percentage were unemployed, and the highest educational attainment was high school. Most respondents had one child in care undergoing immunization, mostly in a health center. Results showed that all respondents scored below the MPL for knowledge. For attitude, all scored above the MPL. Only 45.02% of mothers/caregivers scored above the MPL for practices. Conclusion Despite poor knowledge, mothers and caregivers displayed good attitude towards immunization, however this did not translate into bringing their children for vaccination.