DETERMINANTS OF ROUTINE IMMUNIZATION COVERAGE AMONG CHILDREN AGED 12-23 MONTHS IN IZOM DISTRICT, GURARA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, NIGER STATE

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Department of Medicine

ABSTRACT
Immunization is one of the most cost effective public health interventions, childhood immunization services is provided free by Nigeria government through the Primary Health Care Development Agency. Despite the successes recorded over the years, routine immunization coverage has remained low in our rural communities and a major challenge in reducing childhood morbidity and mortality in our country. The objective of this study was to assess the routine immunization coverage and its determinants in Izom community, Gurara LGA of Niger state Nigeria. A cross–sectional community based study conducted between February and May 2015. Cluster sampling technique was used while structured interviewer questionnaire was used to collect data through house to house visit. Vaccination coverage was assessed using immunization card and maternal history and mother?s knowledge was graded as good if she scores 3 points out of maximum points of 6. Data analysis was done using Epi info for descriptive, bivariate and logistic regression to identify factors that are independently associated with full immunization coverage. A total number of 360 mothers or caretakers and their children whose ages were between 12-23 months old, participated in this study. The mean age of the mothers or caregivers was 28.1±7.032. The levels of knowledge of the mothers or caregivers on the various aspects of routine immunization was poor (8.3%) but their attitudes towards immunization was good (86.6%). The full immunization coverage was low (35.5%) and factors that were significantly associated with full immunization of children were maternal education status of mothers. Mothers with lower levels of education (primary) had their children fully immunized, sources of information on routine immunization with those who got their information from health workers had 57.0% (P=0.001) of their children fully immunized and place of child birth with 46.9% of those who delivered at health centre had their children fully immunized. However, only sources of information on routine immunization were found to be independently associated with full immunization status of children. Mothers or caregivers who got information from health care workers were 0.411 times more likely to fully immunize their children than those who got their information from others sources. A better health education, appropriate information dissemination and strengthening of communication skills among the health care workers could assist in improving immunization coverage in the community.