EXPLORING KNOWLEDGE AND PERCEPTIONS OF POLIO DISEASE AND ITS IMMUNIZATION IN POLIO HIGH-RISK AREAS OF PAKISTAN
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Abstract
Introduction: Poliomyelitis, commonly known as polio, remains a critical public health challenge in several regions of the world, with Pakistan being one of the few countries where the disease is still endemic.
Objectives: The main objective of the study is to find the knowledge and perceptions of polio disease and its immunization in polio high-risk areas of Pakistan.
Methodology of the study: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar from June 2023 to January 2024. The study was conducted in designated polio high-risk areas in Pakistan, selected based on historical polio incidence data and vaccination coverage rates.A total of 75 patients, comprising individuals who had been affected by polio and their family members, were selected to participate in the study.Data were collected through purposive sampling technique.
Results: Data were collected from 75 participants. The study's demographic results showed a nearly balanced gender distribution, with 53.3% male and 46.7% female participants. Age-wise, the largest group was aged 31-45 (33.3%), followed by those aged 18-30 and 46-60 (both at 26.7%), and participants over 60 (13.3%). The study revealed that 80% of participants knew that polio is caused by a virus. Additionally, 70% were aware that polio primarily affects children under five, and 60% understood that polio can lead to permanent paralysis. Moreover, 75% of participants were aware of the polio vaccination schedule.
Conclusion: There is a general awareness of polio and its vaccination in high-risk areas of Pakistan, significant challenges persist due to misinformation, cultural beliefs, and logistical barriers. Targeted, culturally sensitive interventions and improved access to vaccination services are essential to enhance polio vaccination efforts.
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Sami Ullah
Assistant Professor, Paediatrics Department, MTI
Humaira Abbas
Doctor, Govt. Women Medical Officer, Karachi
Beenish Abid
Doctor, Govt. Women Medical Officer, Karachi
Farah Naz
Chief Women Medical Officer, Health Department, Sindh Government Special Leprosy Clinic, Karachi
Sobia Saeed Ghaloo
General Practitioner, Medicine Department, LUMHS Jamshoro, Sindh
Amjad Ali
Lecturer, Bahria University of Health Sciences Sailor St Cantonment Karachi 74400 Sindh
Yousuf Qamar
MBBS Graduate, Dow International Medical College, Karachi
Mian Ayaz Ul Haq
Assistant Professor of Neurology, Hayathabad Medical Complex Hospital, Peshawar