Associated factors to low vaccination rates in Santa Bárbara (Antioquia) 2005 - 2006

Abstract

Objective: To determine the association between socioeconomic, political and geographic variables in relation to low vaccination covertures in children under the age of 5 in Santa Bárbara county, Antioquia. This was to be performed by a cases and controls study that allows for the planning of intervention programs.

Methods: Cases and controls study with prevalent cases that are representative of the population. Patients were matched by geographic area and by age. n = 352, cases (117) and controls (235). A logistic regression analysis was performed considering X2 , OR, CI 95% and a value of p < 0.05. A Hosmer and Lameshow test was performed in order to determine the level of standardization.

Results: Risk Factors: Not taking children to get vaccinated because of disease OR = 3.02, CI 95% (1.68 – 5.42); a lack of money to pay for the transportation OR = 5.10 CI 95% (2.9 – 8.99), other variables with a statistical significance were: not having, forgetting or losing the health ID p = 0.003 and, the care taker not having anyone to leave their other children with p< 0.001. Protective Factors: Related to vaccination campaigns’ communication media (radio, health promoter, health staff) and the academic level of the care taker (complete high school).

Conclusions: Economic, cultural, administrative and social factors are associated with the reasons of a lack of vaccination of children younger than 5. It is necessary a conjunction action between the mayor office, the local health department and the local hospital if useful vaccination covertures want to be achieved.