Study to assess mothers’ knowledge regarding immunization of their under-five children in Al-Andalus Primary Health Care Center, AL-Ramadi city
Yaseen Taha SarhanBACKGROUND:
Immunization is the primary means of protecting people from a wide range of serious illnesses worldwide each year. Although coverage rates are high, vaccine-preventable diseases remain a concern, particularly in regions where gaps in mothers’ knowledge exist. To assess the extent of maternal knowledge regarding immunization and to determine the full immunization status of the children according to maternal characteristics and other determinants.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
A cross-sectional study was conducted at Al-Andalus Primary Health Care Center. A convenience sample of 100 mothers was selected, and interviewed when they brought their children for vaccination from 1 September to the end of November 2025.
RESULTS:
Of the 100 mothers in the study, 89% completely vaccinated their children, 9% partially vaccinated, and 2% had not vaccinated their children at all. Findings from the current study (80%) demonstrated an increase in mothers’ knowledge about vaccination after the COVID-19 pandemic. The Primary Health Care Center was the main source of information for the mothers with fully vaccinated children (52%), whereas the family doctor was reported as a less frequent source (48%). Regarding mothers’ educational level, 100% of the college-educated mothers had fully vaccinated children, 90% of secondary school mothers had fully vaccinated children, whereas low-educated mothers constituted 67% of the group with incomplete vaccination, and this difference was statistically significant. The lack of vaccine supply was the major reason for the discontinuation of vaccination.
CONCLUSION:
Mothers in the study sample demonstrate good and satisfactory knowledge. However, despite this, 11% of them had incomplete immunization. Therefore, greater efforts are needed to increase awareness and address persistent misconceptions. Dissemination of accurate information, large-scale campaigns, and family involvement are the key factors for the success of the program.