Knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding reporting of Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI) among healthcare professionals
Abstract
Background: Vaccines enhance immunity, yet Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI) challenge public trust and immunization coverage by impacting safety perceptions.
Materials and Methods: In Karnataka, India, this cross-sectional study employed self-administered questionnaires at sub-centers (SC) and primary health centers (PHC). Findings were tabulated and analyzed using chi-square (p<0.05).
Results: From 247 subjects, the study achieved a 95% response rate. Notably, 65% exhibited proficient AEFI knowledge, and 88% possessed a favorable attitude toward reporting practices. Age, gender, prior training, and service duration were significant factors for knowledge distinctions. Attitude variations correlated with age, AEFI knowledge, and previous training. Identified barriers impact knowledge, attitude, and reporting.
Conclusion: The majority of healthcare workers at PHC and SC had good knowledge and positive attitudes with good reporting practices of AEFI. A few factors that hinder the diagnosis and reporting must be addressed by routine in-service training. The use of e-media should be brought into practice.
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Copyright (c) 2023 Girish Hiremath, Jyothi R, Akash Gadgade, Nikita Sudhir Kulgod, Ashwini M Kambalyal, Bhoomi Chirag Bagadia, Jhilli Basu, Udaya K
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