Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Immunization Among Under Five Children of Mothers/Caregivers in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State. Nigeria
Chapter One
Objectives of the Study
The study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of immunisation among mothers or caregivers of under-five children in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were as follows:
To assess the level of knowledge about immunization among mothers or caregivers of under-five children in Ado Ekiti.
To explore the attitudes of mothers or caregivers towards immunization in Ado Ekiti.
To examine the immunization practices adopted by mothers or caregivers for their under-five children in Ado Ekiti.
CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
Immunization stands as a linchpin in public health, proven to significantly diminish the prevalence of vaccine-preventable diseases and bolster overall population health (Antai, 2020; Frenkel, 2021). This crucial public health intervention is particularly pivotal for vulnerable groups, with a primary emphasis on children under five years old in global immunization programs (Antai, 2020; Shaipuzaman & Rahman, 2022). In Ado Ekiti, Nigeria, the importance of immunization is underscored, placing the health of under-five children inextricably linked to the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of their mothers or caregivers (Antai, 2020).
Research studies, such as Antai’s investigation into migration and child immunization in Nigeria, contribute significantly to understanding the individual and community-level factors influencing immunization uptake, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to enhance coverage (Antai, 2020). Shaipuzaman and Rahman’s study in Malaysian public universities sheds light on the knowledge and attitudes surrounding infant vaccination, highlighting the multifaceted nature of factors influencing immunization practices (Shaipuzaman & Rahman, 2022).
The relevance of immunization extends to Nigeria, as evidenced by research studies focusing on the impact of water and sanitation on childhood mortality (Ezeh et al., 2022). Studies conducted in specific Nigerian regions, such as Woldia town in northeast Ethiopia and the North Central part of Nigeria, emphasize the coverage, opportunities, and challenges faced in implementing immunization programs (Abebe et al., 2019; Adenike et al., 2017). Additionally, the National Immunization Coverage Survey Report for Nigeria serves as a critical reference point for assessing the current state of immunization efforts (National Immunization Coverage Survey Report, Nigeria, 2023).
Considering the global burden of vaccine-preventable diseases, Frenkel’s exploration of the impact of these diseases on children under five underscores the urgency of effective immunization strategies (Frenkel, 2021). As we focus on the local context of Ado Ekiti, the role of mothers or caregivers becomes paramount. Research on maternal characteristics and immunization status in North Central Nigeria, as well as studies in Enugu, highlight the intricate relationship between maternal knowledge, attitudes, and practices and the immunization status of children (Adenike et al., 2017; Okafor et al., 2022). Therefore, the success of immunization programs in Ado Ekiti hinges on a comprehensive understanding of these factors, as demonstrated by numerous studies, to tailor interventions that address the unique challenges faced by this community (Antai, 2020; Shaipuzaman & Rahman, 2022; Adenike et al., 2017).
Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa, has witnessed commendable strides in bolstering immunization coverage, reflecting the country’s commitment to public health (National Immunization Coverage Survey Report, Nigeria, 2023). Despite these advancements, persistent challenges, particularly at the community level, necessitate a nuanced approach to further strengthen immunization initiatives. It is imperative to delve into the dynamics of knowledge, attitudes, and practices surrounding immunization, especially among mothers and caregivers in Ado Ekiti, to unveil insights crucial for refining existing programs and safeguarding the well-being of the younger population (Antai, 2020; National Immunization Coverage Survey Report, Nigeria, 2023).
Research by Antai (2020) emphasizes the significance of community-level factors in shaping immunization outcomes, reinforcing the need for targeted interventions tailored to the unique challenges faced by specific regions. Ado Ekiti, being a microcosm of the larger Nigerian context, presents an opportunity to investigate localized dynamics influencing immunization practices. By understanding the intricate interplay of knowledge, attitudes, and practices, health authorities can design context-specific strategies that resonate with the community and address barriers to optimal immunization coverage.
The National Immunization Coverage Survey Report for Nigeria serves as a valuable resource for assessing the overall landscape of immunization efforts in the country, offering insights into the areas that require focused attention (National Immunization Coverage Survey Report, Nigeria, 2023). This comprehensive report provides a backdrop against which the specific challenges and opportunities in Ado Ekiti can be contextualized. It serves as a foundation for targeted research and interventions, enabling a more nuanced understanding of the factors influencing immunization practices in this specific community.
At the heart of successful immunization programs are the mothers and caregivers who play a central role in decision-making for the health and well-being of children (Antai, 2020; Adenike et al., 2017). Exploring their knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards immunization in Ado Ekiti is essential for tailoring communication strategies and educational campaigns. By acknowledging the diversity within communities and recognizing the influence of cultural nuances, health authorities can cultivate a more effective and culturally sensitive approach to promote immunization awareness.
In essence, while Nigeria has made substantial progress in immunization coverage, persistent challenges at the community level necessitate a targeted and context-specific approach. Ado Ekiti, as a microcosm, offers valuable insights into the intricate dynamics of knowledge, attitudes, and practices surrounding immunization. By drawing on the existing research landscape and the experiences documented in the National Immunization Coverage Survey Report, health authorities can develop strategies that resonate with the community, address specific challenges, and further elevate the success of immunization programs in safeguarding the health of the younger population (Antai, 2020; National Immunization Coverage Survey Report, Nigeria, 2023).
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