Evaluation of immunization services in a rural block of district Rohtak, Haryana

Background: Vaccination is the most important preventive and cost-effective intervention to decrease morbidity and mortality rates in children. In the past 50 years, vaccination has saved more lives worldwide than any other medical products or procedures. The objectives of the study were to evaluate immunization services at sub-centres and to determine knowledge of Multipurpose Health worker Females (MPHW-Fs) regarding immunization. Material and Methods: Community-based cross sectional study was conducted at all the 21 sub-centres under rural block of Rohtak, Haryana during June 2015-May 2016. Information was collected by carefully observing immunization services through a single visit at all sub-centres during routine immunization sessions and then determining knowledge of MPHW-Fs regarding immunization using a semi-structured interview schedule. Results: Knowledge and practice regarding four key messages of vaccination to the mothers was found to unsatisfactory- 1st key message was given in around 5% sessions, 2nd key message in 57% sessions, 3rd key message in 90% sessions and 4th key message in 58% sessions. Practice of using hub-cutter for syringe disposal immediately after use (38.09%), Practice of updating counterfoils for tracking drop-outs (19.05%), correct biomedical waste segregation and disposal in color-coded bags (47.62%) and practice of filling and issue of MCP cards to new beneficiaries (38.09%) were observed. Conclusion: The overall quality of immunization services at sub-centres was found to be unsatisfactory particularly in the areas of practice of updating counterfoils for tracking drop-out cases, deficiencies in logistic supply, knowledge and practice regarding 4-key messages by health-workers to the mothers.