Evaluation of intensive pulse polio immunization in Solapur District

Abstract

Background: Mass immunization campaigns are now an established fact for the eradication of poliomyelitis. Intensified pulse polio immunization (IPPI) campaigns using only a booth-based approach have not been sufficient to interrupt wild poliovirus transmission in different areas, where it is most persistent with low immunization coverage. Since 1995, PPI is conducted in India and IPPI was introduced in 1998. When we are progressing toward polio eradication and ever-increasing efforts are being done to administer polio drops to every eligible child, it has been observed subjectively that an element of fatigue is creeping in the health system and community. Aim and Objective: The objective of the study is to assess the operational aspects and knowledge of staff regarding PPI program. Material and Methods: Study design – A community-based cross-sectional study. Setting – Six taluks of Solapur district – Mangalwedha, Sangola, Barshi, Mohol, Pandharpur, and Madha. Study period – October 24–30, 2010, and November 21–27, 2010, i.e., 2 weeks. Sample studied – 174 booths, 359 parents, 1289 houses, and 3162 children under 5 years of age. Result: Out of 174 booths, 94.83% booths were easily accessible and IEC material displayed prominently on 85.06% booths.. Regarding source of information of IPPI, 38.16% parents got information from health workers followed by poster. Placement of teams at transit sites, teams were adequate at 80.77% sites, shifting timing appropriate at 88.46%, deployed member present at site in only 76.92% booths and supervisor cross checking the work of teams at only 50% booths. More than 85% of total booth workers were trained. On post booth day activity, in migrant s population 11.97% children were unimmunized whereas in settled population it was 2.32%. Percentage of unimmunized children in migratory population was more than settled population which is statistically highly significant. Conclusion: Special attention is required toward immunization of migratory populations, including slums with migration, nomads, sugar cane cutters, brick kiln workers, also construction site workers and also on transit sites including bus stand, railway stations, mela sites, and weekly bazaars. The role of local media and mass communication programs should be worked out and organized in a more systemic manner. Use of mass media must be done to motivate people for immunization. Supervisor work needs to improve. Community participation should be view as one of the key component for the success of the program. More voluntary agencies, persons, local leaders, and nongovernmental organizations should be motivated to come forward and work for this noble cause.