SURVEY OF IMMUNIZATION LEVELS AND FACTORS AFFECTING PROGRAM PARTICIPATION IN KEFFA, SOUTH- WESTERN ETHIOPIA

Abstract

ABSTRACT:

To date there has been no systematic study on factors affecting participation in EPI in Keffa (Presently Illubabor) region. Using the EPI methodology and a structured questionnaire, a survey of 212 children below 2 years and their respondents was carried out to determine the levels of immunization coverage and identify factors associated with program participation during the period December 1987 to April 1988. it was found that in EPI service sites, 65.6% of study children were fully immunized, 29.2% partially immunized and 5.2% not immunized at all. For index mothers, the coverage for the second dose of TT was 31.1%. Extrapolation of the findings to eligibles of the entire region suggested only about 8% of children and 7% of pregnant women were protected. Of the variables selected for examination, factors related to health workers, health institutions, and those concerning consumers have shown significant effects. It is suggested that realistic social-mobilization, the application of modern principles of management techniques, practical public education and regular monitoring and evaluation will improve immunization coverage.