Özet:

Purpose: Tetanus is a vaccine-preventable disease that threatens health both globally and in Turkey. Tetanus immunization of women is very important as it protects both the mother and the baby. In Turkey however, tetanus immunization coverage is not at the desired level due to insufficiencies in immunization services at health centers and lack of knowledge and motivation. The aim of this study is to determine missed opportunities in tetanus immunization among 15-49 year-old women. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study performed at 2 health centers in the city center ofAydin Province. 15-49 year-old women (n=245) were included in the study who came to the health center for any reason and accepted to participate. Data were collected by face to face interviews performed by High School of Health students. Immunization coverage was assessed by examining vaccination cards if women had one, or according to the information they gave if they did not have any. Data were analysed by chi-square, Fisher's exact test and Student's t- test. Results: Ratio of missed opportunities for tetanus vaccination among women at reproductive age were found to be 24.5%. In 73.3% of women in whom missed opportunities were detected, the missed dose of tetanus vaccine was the third, in 25.0% the second, in 1.7% the first dose. No pregnancy or not having a vaccination card affected the rate of missed opportunities. Conclusion: It was found that there was a missed opportunity for 1 in 4 women in the study area and the biggest proportion of the missing vaccination is the 3rd dose. Catching opportunities is important not only in raising the immunization coverage but also good for mother and baby health. Thus, it is important to increase awareness and sensitivity about tetanus vaccination in health centers by training health personnel.

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