Knowledge and attitude of caretakers of children regarding immunization

Immunization is the most successful component of preventive medicine and is a cost effective strategy to reduce both the morbidity and mortality associated with infectious diseases. The caretakers of six hundred children, who attended our immunization clinic, were included in the present study to assess their knowledge and attitude regarding immunization. Maximum numbers of caretakers were aware of poliomyelitis, followed by tuberculosis and hepatitis. Health institutions were the most frequent sources of information regarding immunization. Television was providing better information regarding immunization. A maximum number of caretakers believed that the immunization was important and majority of them were aware of importance of vaccination to be done as per schedule. Health facility was preferred for immunization. A need to encourage more male participation as caretaker, augment awareness for less known vaccine preventable diseases using mass media and non government organizations was observed.