Assessment of Science Teachers' Awareness towards Immunity and Immunization in Primary School at Baghdad City

Abstract

Objectives: To assess of Science Teachers' Awareness towards immunity and immunization in Baghdad City Primary Schools.

Methodology: A descriptive study was conducted, included (100) primary school, (50) in Al Rassafa sector, and (50) in Al Karkh sector, in March 5th 2012 to March 15th 2013, to assess of science teachers' awareness towards immunity and immunization. A cluster sample of (100) Science teachers (males and females) were selected, as one teacher from each school. A questioner format was used for data collection. The validity of questioner was estimated through a penal of experts related to the field of study, and its reliability was estimated through a pilot study conducted in (20) schools is excluded of the original sample which included (20) teachers in April 8th 2012 to April 14th 2012. Data were analyzed through the application of descriptive and inferential statistical analysis.

Results: The results of the study indicated that (78%) of sample were female, and (39%) of them their ages were between (30-39) years old, (65%) of them were married, while (21%) of them were single, and (50%) of them were institute graduates. Also the study indicated that (26%) of teachers had (15-19) years of employment in teaching sector. Furthermore, (58 %) of sample had no opportunity to be involved in training courses concerning communicable diseases control. The results of this study indicate that, teachers' awareness was poor (in adequate awareness) towards immunity and immunization against communicable diseases in Baghdad City Primary Schools.

Conclusion: The study concluded that teachers' awareness towards immunity and immunization in Baghdad primary schools was poor.

Recommendations: The study recommends that there is a need for cooperation between the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Education on writing a book systematically for primary schools about the nature of the transitional diseases and how to control them through immunity and immunization, and Emphasis on continuous sessions concerning communicable diseases control for teachers in all primary schools.