Assessment of Strengths and Weaknesses of Inactivated Polio Vaccine Practices in Qasimabad, Pakistan

Abstract

Objectives: The objectives of the study were to assess the strengths and weaknesses of inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) practices in Qasimabad, Pakistan. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional survey study was conducted in Hyderabad, Sindh, from June 22, 2017, to September 22, 2017. It included seven expanded programs on immunization (EPI) centers in Taluka Qasimabad, as well as outreach settings. Data were collected through convenience sampling with the help of an EPI Monitoring Checklist and a pre-designed questionnaire. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 23.0 was used for the descriptive analysis. Results: Six of the seven health facilities were found to be screening for missed opportunities. During power outages or load shedding, the majority of EPI centers (85.7%) had a backup plan in place. However, the major shortcoming was the failure to obtain parental consent before vaccination by vaccinators at all 7 (100%) EPI centers. At 5 (71.9%) of the centers, outreach activities to vaccinate children were organized, and IPV was only given to infants at 1 (19.2%) of the sessions. The vaccinator opened the vial before using it, and the used IPV vial was not discarded at the end of the outreach session. Because one center’s vaccinator was female (19.2%), and another center’s vaccinator was single (19.2%), no outreach activity was planned at those two locations. Conclusion: This research highlights the benefits and drawbacks of the current EPI program for the IPV vaccine. The presence of EPI centers at all health facilities, as well as the availability of IPV and cold chain equipment, as well as permanent and fully-trained employees, are some of the most important strengths. Lack of pre-service training and adverse events following immunization vaccine training were identified as weaknesses. There are a lack of IPV refresher training, as well as improper arrangements for outreach vaccination sessions, and a lack of transportation for vaccinators.