The CDC Quota Sampling Technic with Results of 1959 Poliomyelitis Vaccination Surveys

Abstract

A poliomyelitis immunization survey technic designed for rapid execution and analysis, simplicity of field procedures, and minimal training of interviewers is described. The objective is comparison of appropriate subgroups within the population of a given city. It is not recommended for estimation of city-wide averages or for comparison of results for one city with those of another. Certain biases are encountered in allocation of primary sampling units to census tracts and in selection of households within primary sampling units. When conditions of extreme heterogeneity in distribution of dwelling units occur within census tracts and within primary sampling units, careful study and exercise of sound judgment must modify routine application of the methodology. A survey conducted in Boston in March, 1959, is described to illustrate the procedure and analysis. Similar surveys were conducted in 36 cities located in various parts of the country. Summary results, given for 26 surveys, indicate that the problem of low immunization rates in young children in lower socioeconomic groups has been widespread.