Analysis of Tetanus Immunization During Pregnancy Among Married Women of Childbearing Age Attending Gynecology and Pediatrics GDP of Nishtar Hospital, Nishtar Medical University, Multan

Abstract

Background: Neonatal tetanus is one of the major causes of neonatal deaths in developing countries including Pakistan. This can be combated by clean, sterile method of delivery and risk can be significantly reduced by 94%1 if two shots of tetanus toxoid vaccination are administered to women during gestation.Objective: The study was carried out to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of married women of age 16-50 years regarding tetanus toxoid immunization during pregnancy.Material and method: A cross-sectional study was carried out in Gynecology and Pediatrics out-patient department of Nishtar medical college and hospital for twelve days. 150 married women of child bearing age were included in the survey. The women were personally interviewed to fill the questionnaire Performa. Moreover, the data was analyzed by using SPSS 10.Results: It was found that 23 women (15.3%) had received one shot of tetanus toxoid vaccine during pregnancy.69 women (46%) had received two shots and 58 women (38.7%) had never been vaccinated against tetanus during pregnancy. 53 out of 106 urban women (49.5%) were aware of tetanus and its risk. On the other hand, only 21 out of 44 rural women (46.8%) had the awareness.48 out of 68 women of higher socio-economic status (70.6%) were well- informed while 19 out of 82 women belonging to low socio-economic status (23%) were well-informed. 51 of 76 literate women (67.1%) had awareness. In contrast, 24 of 74 illiterate women (32.4%) were well aware.45 out of 95 housewives (47%) were well acquainted with knowledge of tetanus while 17 out of 55 working women (31.3%) were familiar with the diseases and risks.Conclusion: The awareness about tetanus and benefits of tetanus toxoid vaccination during gestation is fairly low. Hence, tetanus toxoid immunization coverage is below satisfactory as well. Efforts need to be made to increases awareness and campaigns should be arranged for mass immunization of women of child-bearing age. (Key words: tetanus, married women, tetanus toxoid vaccination, pregnancy.

Keywords: Tetanus, Tetanus toxoid vaccination, neonatal deaths, immunization.

Type of study: Original Research Article.