Reasons for defaulting from expanded program of immunization (EPI) in Jimma town, South Western Ethiopia

Abstract

A cross sectional community based study was carried out in Jimma Town, South Western Ethiopia to determine reasons for defaulting from expanded program of immunication (EPI) using structured questionnaire in March 1997. A total of 376 children aged 12 to 23 months and their mothers were covered in the study. The data entry and analysis was done using SPSS computer software. Appropr statistical significance were employed where necessary. Out of the total 376 children 175 (46.5%) were fully immunized, 201 (53.5%) were defaulters. The reasons given by mothers for not completing vaccination were missed appointment time 18.8%, mothers had no enough time 25.9% and child was sick 23.4% in the bivariate analysis maternal age, antenatal care attendance, parity, education, knowledge about vaccine preventable diseases and benefit of immunization were all found to have statistically significant association with status of immunization (P.value <0.05). The availability and accessibility of EPT services alone does not make mothers to complete the immunization unless they are made to understand the need for repeated doses of vaccine through other means. Therefore, concerted efforts should be made by all concerned to further promote information, education and communication on utilization of available services.