1686. Maternal Knowledge and Perceptions about Routine Immunization in a Slum Area of Pakistan

BACKGROUND: To know the baseline coverage and potential obstacles for children vaccination before starting a health awareness program. METHODS: A cross-sectional study on immunization coverage in the slum area of Multan, Pakistan was conducted and a total of 312 mothers were interviewed face to face for Knowledge, Attitudes, and Perceptions (KAP). RESULTS: Among the children less than 3 years, 33% fully, 46% partially and 21% were not at all immunized. High levels of BCG and OPV zero rates (79%) and low rates of OPV3/DPT3 (48%) and measles (41%) vaccines were found. Majority of the mothers were satisfied with the program. Most of the mothers were aware about the importance of vaccination but were ignorant for the need to complete the schedule. There were many misconceptions and beliefs among the mothers of partial and unimmunized children. The majority were of view that vaccines contain ingredients that will make the children infertile. CONCLUSION: There is a need to enhance the maternal knowledge about the vaccine-preventable diseases and importance of completing the immunization schedule. Also the misconception about the vaccines need be specifically addressed. DISCLOSURES: All authors: No reported disclosures.