Journal of Community Medicine & Health Education
Open Access

Abstract

Statement of the Problem: Immunization is the most important component of primary health care system and is very much responsible for any nation�?�?�?¢�?�?�?�?�?�?�?�?s health security. World over, in developing and under developed countries inadequate levels of immunization against childhood diseases remain a significant public health problem. The urban average growth rate is 3% while the urban slums growth rate is double at 5-6%. The stark living conditions in slums�?�?�?¢�?�?�?�?�?�?�?�?characterized by extreme population density, poor sanitation, and a lack of access to basic health services�?�?�?¢�?�?�?�?�?�?�?�?encourage a host of health challenges. Methodology & Theoretical Orientation: The present study was conducted in the urban slums of Karimnagar town to study the status of immunization coverage and to study the nutritional status. The informant was either of the parents or grandparents. All the children in the age group of 1 to 5 years were the study subjects. The informant was either of the parents or grandparents. Findings: According to WHO 30 cluster technique out of 660, 529 (80.2%) were fully immunized and 131 (19.8%) were partially immunized. This difference of immunization status of children between the religions (�?�?�?�?�?�?�?2=39.384), family types (�?�?�?�?�?�?�?2=42.718), mother�?�?�?¢�?�?�?�?�?�?�?�?s Knowledge on immunization, distance of immunization center (�?�?�?�?�?�?�?2=310.194) was found to be statistically significant (df=2, p<0.01 and p=0.002, respectively). The relation between low birth weight, malnutrition and sex of child is statistically significant (�?�?�?�?�?�?�?2=24.001, df=4, p<0.001). The relation between immunization status of child and malnutrition and difference of immunization status of children between presences of at least one morbidity condition was also found to be statistically significant (�?�?�?�?�?�?�?2=25.324, df=1, p<0.001). Conclusion & Significance: There is an urgent need to strengthen the existing immunization program among the marginalized communities like those residing in urban slums. Special emphasis should be placed on proper and adequate counseling of parents regarding the benefits of immunization.

Biography

Vikas Kaushal is a  trusted  patient and community oriented doctor seeking a position in a hospital as well as in community set up  to acquire more practical knowledge. A seasoned Health Professional having a proven track record in public Health. He is a highly motivated, dedicated and clinically competent general practitioner with experience in Public Health Program, Counterparts and system from a range of cultural backgrounds. He is committed to pursuing a role in which he can help people maintain their health and quality of life.
Email:kaushalvikas13@gmail.com