THE EPIDEMIOLOGY OF INCOMPLETE CHILDHOOD IMMUNIZATION - AN ANALYSIS OF REPORTED IMMUNIZATION STATUS IN OUTER WESTERN SYDNEY

We surveyed parents of children enrolled in kindergarten in 1992 in outer western Sydney and the Blue Mountains. Using parents' reports, we determined the prevalence of immunization uptake for children starting school, compared the prevalence of immunization uptake among Catholic, government and independent schools, and identified immunization providers. We also documented parental beliefs about immunization and their influence on immunization status, and identified risk factors for incomplete immunization. Nearly 89% of children were reported to be fully immunized. Immunization status did not vary significantly among the different types of school. General practitioners provided 84% of all immunizations and local councils 11%. Incomplete immunization was associated with more negative beliefs in immunization, with post-secondary education and with families who do not speak English at home. Reminder letters had little effect on immunization status.