EVALUATION OF PUBLIC VIEWS AND PERCEPTIONS TOWARD POLIO VACCINATION IN THE POPULATION OF AJK
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Keywords
Accessibility, barriers, immunization, polio vaccination, public perception, rural, vaccine hesitancy
Abstract
Background: Polio remains a significant public health concern in many parts of the world, including Pakistan, where it is a persistent issue despite vaccination efforts. Public views and perceptions toward polio vaccination are crucial in shaping vaccination programs. In Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), understanding these perceptions is vital for improving vaccination coverage and achieving eradication goals.
Objective: To evaluate the public views and perceptions toward polio vaccination in the population of AJK, aiming to identify factors influencing vaccine acceptance and hesitancy.
Study Design and Setting: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in various districts of AJK between August 2023 to January 2024. The study involved individuals from different demographic backgrounds, including rural and urban areas.
Methodology: A structured questionnaire was administered to 110 participants. The survey assessed knowledge about polio, attitudes toward vaccination, and barriers to vaccine acceptance. Data were analyzed for patterns based on gender, age, education, and residence.
Results: The results indicated high awareness of polio vaccination (94.5%), with 80% of participants acknowledging its importance in preventing paralysis. However, 25.5% reported accessibility issues, and 20% expressed concerns about side effects. Religious beliefs and misinformation also played a role in vaccine hesitancy, particularly in rural areas.
Conclusion: Polio vaccination awareness is generally high in AJK, but barriers such as accessibility, fear of side effects, and misinformation hinder full acceptance. Targeted awareness programs and improved vaccine delivery in rural areas are essential for increasing vaccination coverage.
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Sana Rehman
MBBS, FCPS Pediatrics, Senior Registrar Pediatric Medicine, University of Lahore Teaching Hospital,
Junaid Mushtaq
MBBS, Medical Officer, Muslim Hands Medical Centre, Islampura Jabbar, Gujar Khan,
Sadaf Abrar
MBBS, Medical Officer, TWF Hospital Rawalpindi,
Jawad Mushtaq
MBBS, BHU Hussainkot Rawalakot
Attiqa Khan
MBBS, House Officer SKBZ CMH Rawalakot
Safia Rani
MBBS, MO Umair Hospital Jhelum