Measles And Rubella (MR) Vaccination Status In A Locality Of Delhi And Impact Of Parents Education

Abstract

Background: Measles is a highly contagious viral disease primarily spread through respiratory routes. Despite advances in vaccination campaigns, there has been a resurgence of cases, highlighting the need for ongoing immunization efforts. In Unani medicine, measles is referred to as "Hasba" or "Khasra" and is classified as a Safrawi (bilious) disorder, especially common in hot, dry climates. Zakariya Razi, a prominent figure in Unani medicine, emphasized the importance of maintaining humoral balance to prevent illness during seasonal changes.

Method:  A random sampling approach was employed using the WHO 30-cluster method to include a total of 210 children aged 2 to 5 years. To ensure an unbiased selection process, a computerized random number list was generated through an online random number generator.

Result: In a survey of 210 children, 65 (31%) were fully immunized against Measles and Rubella (MR), while 145 (69%) were not. The study examined how fathers' employment and education influenced vaccination rates. Most fathers were skilled laborers or worked in retail, with 78 (37.1%) in elementary occupations and 45 (21.6%) in shop and market sales. No significant link was found between fathers' occupations and children's immunization status (χ² = 5.54, p = 0.78). However, a strong correlation emerged between fathers' education levels and vaccination coverage (χ² = 16.48, p = 0.01), indicating that fathers with higher educational qualifications were more likely to have fully immunized children.

Conclusion: This study emphasizes the pivotal role of fathers' education in improving immunization coverage, outweighing occupational factors. Enhancing health awareness among parents, particularly fathers, could help bridge the immunization gap in underserved areas like Zakir Nagar, Okhla.