Factors Affecting Adherence to Infant Immunization

 Immunization coverage in the Philippines reached only 60%, in contrast to the 85% target coverage of the country (DOH, 2018). The study aimed to assess the extent of adherence to infant immunization and determine the factors affecting adherence among parents of infants 6 to 12 months in a rural setting in the Philippines. Identified factors in the study are knowledge and beliefs of parents about immunization, age, sex, educational status, marital status, birth order, and place of child delivery. These were correlated with the practices of the parents in terms of timeliness and completeness of immunization. 

A descriptive-correlational research design was used and the researchers developed a questionnaire on the knowledge, beliefs, and practices of parents on immunization. 171 parents who were  18 years old and above, with at least one infant aged 6-12 months, residing in the selected barangays in Alfonso, Cavite, were included in the study. Purposive sampling was utilized.

The respondents were able to answer correctly, the majority of the questions on knowledge on immunization. They believe that immunization is beneficial to the general well-being of the children. However, results showed a declining trend in the timeliness and completeness as the child gets older. This can be attributed to the time gap of vaccines. The belief was found to have a significant association with practice. In terms of knowledge, only sex was found to be significantly related. Marital status and birth order were found to be significantly related to timeliness and completeness of immunization. Findings showed a significant relationship between timeliness and completeness of infant immunization. Research findings suggest that comprehensive national and local efforts must be continued in order to improve the knowledge, beliefs, and practices of parents on infant immunization.