Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Practices of Parents Regarding Vaccination for their Children - A Hospital Centered Observational Study

Background: Vaccination is one of the most effective public health strategies for reducing childhood morbidity and mortality.Parents' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) play a crucial role in complete immunization.Understanding these factors helps in improving vaccination coverage and addressing barriers within the community.Purpose: The study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices of parents regarding vaccination awareness for their children receiving immunization services at Navodaya Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Raichur.Materials and Methods: A Prospective Observational study was conducted among 140 parents/guardians attending the immunization clinic.Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering socio-demographic characteristics and KAP-related factors.The results were analysed and presented using descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages.Results: Most parents were aged between 20-29 years, and the majority were mothers and residents of rural areas.Knowledge levels varied, with 62.9% recognizing that vaccines prevent infectious diseases, but only 34.3% were aware of specific Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) target diseases.Attitudes toward vaccination were generally positive, with more than half agreeing that compliance with the immunization schedule is important and that all children should be vaccinated.70%reported being informed about the next immunization date.However, gaps were noted in awareness of vaccine side-effects and in communication regarding vaccine types and doses.Conclusion: Parents exhibited positive attitudes and acceptable practices towards childhood immunization, but notable gaps in knowledge and persisting misconceptions remain.Strengthening parental education, improving counselling by healthcare workers may enhance vaccination awareness and compliance.