A Study of the Effectiveness of Pulse Polio Immunization Programme (PPIP) - 2053 B.S.

Abstract

Background: Pulse Polio Immunization Programme-2053 was observed for the first time in Nepal on 21st Mangsir and 4th Magh, 2053 with the objective of eradicating the wild strains of polio virus from the community. This programme is supposed to be of immense help in the WHO goal of eradication of poliomyelitis by the year 2000 A.D. Methods: All children below 5 years of age irrespective of their primary immunization status were included in this programme. The study was conducted during the months of April-October '97 in four Village Development Committees nearby Dharan Municipality. A total of 506 households were surveyed on the questionnaire basis. Results: The study found out that 96.05% children were immunized. Regarding the sex-wise distribution, 367 males out of 381 and 339 females out of 354 were immunized. Percentage of children not immunized during the programme was found to be 2.95%.The reasons being the ignorance while a few complained of distance being too far. Not a single case of poliomyelitis or its residual effects was seen in the area. Conclusions: The coverage of the program and the participation of the population were found to be satisfactory. To carry out programmes of such kind in the future in these areas, spreading awareness among people seems to be the key to success and good coordination and dedication of the authority is vital. Keywords: children; coverage; immunization; primary immunization; pulse polio immunization programme.