Assessment of knowledge about adverse events following immunization among health care workers of Raipur city

Abstract

Background: Vaccines used in national immunization programme are extremely safe and effective. Although, no vaccine is 100% safe and effective and adverse effects occurs. Process of immunization itself is potential source of adverse reactions. Knowledge and reporting of adverse events following immunization (AEFI) is very important for health care workers. Objective of this study is to assess knowledge about AEFI among health care workers.Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among health care workers of primary health care centres of Raipur City. All the ANM, Staff Nurse and MPWs posted in all the primary health centers of Raipur city (C.G.) were selected for the study. A pre designed pretested questionnaire was administered after taking verbal consent. Data was collected, compiled and analyzed in MS excel.Results: A total 157 health care workers participated in study. Mean age of the participants was 36.4±8.8. More than 80% participants knew vaccine product and vaccine quality defect-related reaction as possible causes of AEFI. 87.3% knew about swelling as commonest AFEI. The 59.9% had knowledge about management of common AEFI. 99.3% Health care workers knew anaphylaxis as one of severe AEFI and 91.08% were aware that AEFI should be reported.Conclusions: Majority of study participants had knowledge about possible causes of AEFI, minor and serious AEFI.