Knowledge of post-vaccination effects and its impact on adherence to the immunization schedule in children under two years
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37431/conectividad.v7i1.421Keywords:
Pediatric vaccination, Parental knowledge, Treatmente Adherence, Rural healthAbstract
Childhood vaccination is one of the most effective strategies to prevent infectious diseases and reduce early mortality, although rural communities continue to face difficulties in completing immunization schedules due to myths and lack of information about post-vaccination effects. In order to analyze this issue, a cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach was conducted in the rural community of Zuleta, Ecuador, between January and June 2025. A total of 72 caregivers of children under two years old participated. A validated 15-item questionnaire was applied, and vaccination cards were reviewed. Results showed that 30.5% had a low level of knowledge about post-vaccination effects, 40.3% medium, and 29.2% high; furthermore, 59.7% of the children completed the official immunization schedule, while 40.3% did not. Statistical analysis confirmed a significant association between higher knowledge levels and better vaccination compliance (χ²=15.93, df=2, p=0.000). These findings demonstrate that adequate understanding of expected side effects promotes adherence to the official schedule, highlighting the importance of strengthening community educational strategies to improve coverage in rural areas.
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