Polio Disease and Immunization: Knowledge and Attitude of Filipino Mothers in a Rural Community

Abstract

Background: In response to the 2019 Polio outbreak in the Philippines, it is crucial to examine the current understanding and beliefs about the disease. This study assessed the knowledge and attitudes of mothers towards Polio and Polio vaccination in a rural community. Materials and Methods: Sixty-two mothers in a selected rural barangay in Negros Occidental, Philippines, participated in this cross-sectional study using a survey questionnaire in July 2021. Descriptive statistics and correlation analysis were employed. Results: The results showed that 43.50% of mothers had a high level of knowledge and 74.20% had a favorable attitude towards Polio and Polio immunization. There was a significant relationship (p = 0.05) between knowledge and attitude towards Polio and Polio immunization. Conclusions: This study underscores addressing knowledge gaps through public health campaigns may improve beliefs and perceptions about immunization programs.

Keywords

• disease outbreaks
• poliomyelitis
• rural population
• vaccination