Evaluation of Tetanus Vaccination Coverage among Women of Reproductive Age in a Primary Health Care Center in Baghdad City
Abstract
Background: The tetanus vaccine in pregnancy is crucial for preventing tetanus, a potentially fatal bacterial infection. Tetanus is particularly dangerous for newborns if contracted by pregnant women, as it can lead to neonatal tetanus. The vaccine, typically given as part of the Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) vaccine, helps protect both the mother and the unborn child by passing on antibodies. It's generally recommended during the third trimester of each pregnancy, providing passive immunity to the newborn until they're old enough to receive their own vaccinations. The tetanus vaccine, when administered during pregnancy, has been shown to be safe for both the mother and the developing fetus. Numerous studies have demonstrated its safety profile. Timing: The vaccine is typically recommended during the third trimester of each pregnancy, ideally between weeks 27 and 36. This vaccination timing ensures optimal transplacental transfer of protective antibodies to the fetus. Tetanus, caused by the neurotoxin-producing bacterium Clostridium tetani, presents significant risk due to its ubiquitous presence in soil, dust, and animal face. Objective: This study investigates women's awareness of the tetanus vaccine and measures its association with Clinical outcomes. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study. Data were collected from thirty women who attended the Yarmouk Primary Health Care. It included the data collected by the researchers, the questions were explained face to face, samples were taken and recorded manually, and then collected via the Excel program. The data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (IBM SPSS) version20. The confidence level is 95% with a significant level of P < 0.05. Results: The sample consisted of 30 case (mean age 33.17 years; minimum 20 yr and maximum 45yr). Taking into account the educational level of each woman, it was noted that this affects prenatal health care and general information about the vaccine. 96% of women received the tetanus vaccine, of which 41% percent received the full five doses.