IJSR International Journal of Scientific Research 2277 - 8179 Indian Society for Health and Advanced Research ijsr-9-8-26611 Original Research Paper TO STUDY THE AWARENESS ABOUT VACCINATION AMONG MEDICAL STUDENTS OF A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL - A 'KAP' STUDY Joshi Dr. Femina Dawer Dr. August 2020 9 8 01 02 ABSTRACT

This study was a prospective, cross sectional and single centered study, conducted at a tertiary care hospital. The study was conducted over a period of 2 months (January 2020 – February 2020) after obtaining permission from the Institutional Ethics Committee. The designed questionnaire was distributed among medical students who were willing to participate in the study to assess the participants Knowledge, Attitude and Practice regarding National Immunization Schedule. The data collected compiled in excel sheet was analyzed statistically for calculating mean and standard deviation. Appropriate statistical tests were applied wherever necessary. Regarding knowledge meager response was obtained. Around 40% of the students had the insight regarding route of administration of the vaccines. Preponderance of students thought the purpose of vaccines was to prevent illness. The knowledge regarding the pentavalent vaccine assessed was found correct in 34.82% of the students. Only 41.29% of the students thought that all the vaccines should be given irrespective of any gender, while 30% students believed rubella vaccine not to be administered in boys. Regarding the attitude , students thought the combined effects of the vaccines would be effective and should be recommended were about 61.19%. Awareness followed by affordability were inferred to be the major set back for low immunization status. Regarding the practice, 56.72% of the students believes not to vaccinate a sick baby. About 79.1% of the students told that they have motivated other people about immunization. This study provides an important foundation to support the development of comprehensive vaccination education during their first two years of their medical students. Medical students positively outlook vaccination education, and they would likely be amenable to more vaccine related education and training. We recommend to include immunization as an integral part of the medical education, so as to strengthing the immunization status in the society.