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KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDE OF MOTHERS TOWARDS IMMUNIZATION SERVICES IN OZUOBA COMMUNITY IN OBIO/AKPOR L.G.A OF RIVERS STATE
Abstract
This study examined the Knowledge and Attitude of Mothers towards Immunization Services in Ozuoba Community in Obio/Akpor L.G.A of Rivers State. A quantitative survey research design was adopted, and a structured questionnaire was used to collect data from a sample of 133 mothers selected through a purposive sampling technique. The data were analyzed using frequency tables, simple percentages, mean, and standard deviation, while t-tests were used to test the stated hypotheses. The results showed that the majority of mothers in Ozuoba had a high level of knowledge regarding the importance of immunization and the types of vaccines required for their children. A significant proportion also believed that immunization is crucial for the health and safety of their children. However, a small group of mothers expressed hesitations about vaccinating their children, citing concerns over potential side effects. The study also found a strong relationship between the knowledge of mothers about immunization and their attitudes toward vaccination. Those with higher knowledge demonstrated more positive attitudes toward immunization. The t-test results further confirmed that mothers’ knowledge significantly influenced their willingness to vaccinate their children. In conclusion, the study found that while mothers in the Ozuoba community generally exhibited good knowledge and positive attitudes toward immunization, there were still concerns about vaccine safety that could hinder full vaccine uptake. The study recommended that health authorities enhance awareness programs, address misconceptions about vaccine safety, and integrate immunization education into routine maternal and child health services to improve vaccine uptake.
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Immunization is widely recognized as one of the most effective public health interventions, especially for reducing the prevalence of infectious diseases among children under five. By providing immunity against a range of life-threatening conditions, immunization helps curb the spread of diseases, reduce healthcare costs, and ultimately save lives (Ophori et al., 2020). According to the World Health Organization, vaccines prevent millions of deaths each year by safeguarding individuals from diseases such as measles, polio, and tuberculosis. In developing countries, however, achieving optimal immunization coverage remains a challenge due to several factors, including logistical issues, misinformation, and limited access to healthcare services.
In Nigeria, immunization programs have been strategically implemented through the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI), targeting children across the country, particularly in rural and underserved areas. The Nigerian government, in collaboration with international organizations and NGOs, has made concerted efforts to provide access to vaccinations in every region (Masresha et al., 2017). However, despite these initiatives, immunization coverage remains below the ideal threshold in many Nigerian communities. Factors contributing to this include inadequate infrastructure, insufficient healthcare personnel, and financial constraints. The persistence of vaccine-preventable diseases in Nigeria highlights the need for innovative strategies to improve the reach and impact of immunization programs.
Rivers State, located in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria, has seen varied success with its immunization programs. In the Ozuoba community of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, immunization services are accessible, yet immunization rates are still not optimal (Ndwandwe et al., 2021). Socioeconomic factors, education levels, and cultural beliefs influence mothers’ decisions about vaccinating their children. In some cases, a lack of awareness about immunization schedules or a belief in alternative medicine can lead mothers to delay or forego vaccinations. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach, including community health education and targeted outreach to enhance immunization uptake.
The role of mothers is central to the success of immunization programs, as they are typically the primary decision-makers regarding their children’s health. Mothers’ knowledge and attitudes toward immunization significantly influence whether their children receive timely vaccinations (Mohammed & Al-Zahrani, 2021). Therefore, understanding mothers’ perspectives is crucial in identifying the gaps in immunization knowledge and dispelling myths surrounding vaccinations. When mothers are well-informed, they are more likely to trust and comply with immunization schedules, resulting in higher immunization rates and better health outcomes for their children.
Research has shown that health education interventions that target caregivers, especially mothers, can have a substantial impact on immunization uptake. For instance, a study conducted in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, found that mothers who had a higher level of knowledge and positive attitudes towards vaccines were more likely to immunize their children (Mapatano et al., 2020). Providing mothers with accurate, easy-to-understand information about vaccines and their benefits is essential. This approach not only empowers them to make informed health decisions but also helps reduce the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases within communities.
In many cases, misconceptions and cultural beliefs about immunization contribute to vaccine hesitancy, which has been identified as a major barrier to achieving high immunization coverage. For instance, in some communities, vaccinations are viewed with suspicion due to myths or misinformation spread through social networks (MacDonald, 2023). In the Ozuoba community, similar challenges are present, with some mothers believing that vaccines can cause illness or lead to infertility. Health authorities need to address these misconceptions directly by working with local leaders and using culturally sensitive messaging that resonates with the community’s beliefs and values.
The accessibility of immunization services also plays a critical role in vaccination rates. In many Nigerian communities, long distances to health centers, lack of transportation, and high out-of-pocket costs make it difficult for families to access vaccination services (Mazige et al., 2020). These logistical challenges are particularly pronounced in rural areas where healthcare infrastructure is underdeveloped. In Rivers State, efforts to bring immunization services closer to the community through mobile clinics or community health workers have shown promise. Such initiatives help ensure that children receive vaccinations on time, which is essential for preventing disease outbreaks.
In addition to accessibility, the quality of healthcare services and the competence of healthcare providers affect mothers’ perceptions of immunization. A study in Amritsar city, India, revealed that healthcare workers’ attitudes and their ability to communicate effectively with mothers had a significant impact on vaccination decisions (Singh et al., 2018). Healthcare providers need to be trained not only in administering vaccines but also in counseling caregivers on the importance of immunization. When healthcare workers take the time to explain the immunization process, address mothers’ concerns, and provide follow-up information, mothers are more likely to complete their children’s vaccination schedules.
Monitoring and evaluation of immunization programs are crucial for identifying areas of improvement and ensuring the effectiveness of these initiatives. Data from surveys and health records can reveal patterns in vaccination uptake and help identify groups with lower immunization rates (National Population Commission & ICF, 2019). By tracking this data, health authorities can tailor interventions to target specific populations, such as those with high vaccine hesitancy or limited access to healthcare facilities. Moreover, regular assessment of immunization programs allows for timely adjustments in response to changing community needs or emerging health threats.
Parental education and engagement are vital components of a successful immunization program. Studies suggest that when parents are actively engaged and educated about the health benefits of vaccines, their confidence in immunization programs increases (Oladepo et al., 2019). In the Ozuoba community, providing mothers with educational materials on immunization schedules, vaccine benefits, and side effects may foster a more positive attitude toward immunization. Interactive sessions with healthcare providers can also help clarify doubts and reinforce the importance of completing the full immunization schedule.
The use of reminder systems, such as text message alerts, has proven effective in improving immunization compliance in some regions. For instance, a study in Nigeria found that mothers who received reminder messages were more likely to adhere to the immunization schedule compared to those who did not receive reminders (Rahman, 2017). Implementing a similar system in Ozuoba could help increase timely immunization, especially among busy mothers who may otherwise miss vaccination appointments. Such digital interventions are cost-effective and can be integrated into broader health communication strategies.
Collaborations between government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and international bodies are essential for sustaining immunization programs in Nigeria. The United Nations Inter-Agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation (2020) has highlighted the role of partnerships in strengthening healthcare infrastructure and expanding access to immunization services. Through these collaborations, Nigeria has made progress in reducing child mortality rates, yet there is still room for improvement. A continued focus on building robust healthcare systems and ensuring a steady supply of vaccines is necessary for reaching all children, especially in hard-to-reach areas.
Despite the global push for immunization, vaccine hesitancy remains a concern, driven in part by misinformation on social media. Research has shown that negative information about vaccines, when amplified on social media, can lead to increased hesitancy among parents (Tyrer & Heyman, 2020). In Nigeria, social media has become a major source of information for many people, but not all of it is accurate. Public health campaigns that leverage social media to spread factual information about vaccines could counteract misinformation and promote a culture of trust in immunization.
Ultimately, enhancing immunization rates in communities like Ozuoba requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both supply and demand factors. This includes ensuring consistent vaccine availability, educating parents, dispelling myths, and improving service delivery at health centers. Research indicates that when these elements are in place, communities are more likely to achieve high immunization coverage, protecting children from preventable diseases and contributing to public health (Rasinger, 2023). Immunization is not only a personal health measure but a collective responsibility that requires cooperation among individuals, families, and communities.
Efforts to reduce the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases can only be successful if communities are willing to participate in immunization programs. Therefore, understanding and addressing the specific concerns and barriers faced by the community are critical. This approach promotes community ownership of immunization programs, where residents feel empowered to take part in public health initiatives that benefit everyone. Through continued education, accessible services, and support from healthcare providers, communities like Ozuoba can make significant strides toward better health outcomes for all.
The role of healthcare providers, especially in primary care settings, cannot be overstated. They are often the first point of contact for parents seeking information about their child’s health. Training healthcare providers in communication skills and equipping them to handle vaccine-related concerns effectively can build trust and encourage compliance with vaccination schedules (Obohwemu et al., 2022). In areas where healthcare workers are respected figures, their endorsement of immunization can greatly influence public attitudes toward vaccines, leading to increased uptake and improved community health.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Immunization is critical for preventing infectious diseases among children under five, yet challenges persist in achieving comprehensive coverage in many regions, including Nigeria. Despite ongoing efforts through programs like Nigeria’s Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI), there remains a considerable gap in immunization uptake, particularly in rural and underserved communities. In Rivers State, specifically in the Ozuoba community of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, immunization rates are below optimal levels, largely due to cultural misconceptions, inadequate health education, and logistical barriers (Ndwandwe et al., 2021). Research has highlighted some of these issues; however, gaps remain in understanding the specific knowledge levels and attitudes of mothers, who are often the primary decision-makers in children’s healthcare (Oladepo et al., 2019).
Previous studies have generally examined the broader factors affecting immunization rates, but few have focused on the nuanced beliefs, knowledge, and socio-cultural influences affecting mothers’ perceptions in specific Nigerian communities like Ozuoba. Understanding these local perceptions is essential, as studies show that targeted health education can improve vaccine acceptance when it directly addresses community-specific concerns and misconceptions (Mapatano et al., 2020). Yet, in Ozuoba, limited research exists on the exact attitudes and misconceptions mothers may hold regarding immunization schedules, vaccine safety, and potential side effects. This lack of targeted information leaves a critical gap in the ability of health authorities to design effective interventions that resonate with this community’s unique cultural context (MacDonald, 2023).
Furthermore, while logistical barriers such as poor healthcare infrastructure and limited accessibility to healthcare facilities are documented as general barriers to immunization in Nigeria, specific data on how these barriers affect mothers in the Ozuoba community are scarce (Mazige et al., 2020). Without this localized understanding, interventions may fall short of addressing the real challenges on the ground. Additionally, although digital interventions like reminder systems have shown promise in other regions for improving immunization compliance, their effectiveness in communities like Ozuoba has not been rigorously tested (Rahman, 2017).
Thus, this study seeks to fill these research gaps by examining mothers’ knowledge and attitudes toward immunization in Ozuoba, as well as assessing potential cultural and logistical factors unique to this community. By doing so, it aims to provide insights that can inform more effective, community-tailored interventions, helping to improve immunization uptake and overall child health outcomes in the region.
1.3 Purpose of the Study
The purpose of this study is to:
- Assess the level of knowledge among mothers in the Ozuoba community about immunization services.
- Examine the attitudes of mothers towards immunization and identify factors that may influence these attitudes.
- Determine the relationship between mothers’ knowledge and their attitudes towards immunization services.
1.4 Research Questions
The study seeks to answer the following research questions:
- What is the level of knowledge among mothers in the Ozuoba community about immunization services?
- What are the attitudes of mothers in the Ozuoba community towards immunization?
- Is there a relationship between the knowledge of mothers and their attitudes towards immunization services in the Ozuoba community?
1.5 Research Hypotheses
The following hypotheses guide this study:
- There is no significant relationship between mothers’ knowledge of immunization and their attitude towards immunization services.
- There is no significant difference in the knowledge of immunization between younger and older mothers in the Ozuoba community.
- Attitudes of mothers towards immunization services do not significantly vary based on their educational level.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study holds significant importance in multiple areas. First, the insights gained from this research will assist health policymakers by revealing gaps in knowledge and attitudes among mothers in the Ozuoba community, particularly around immunization. With these findings, policymakers can tailor strategies to address specific challenges and improve immunization coverage in the region. Understanding the local perceptions and misconceptions allows for more effective program development, aligning policy efforts with the real needs of the community.
On a broader scale, the study has the potential to positively impact community health. By identifying and addressing the barriers that prevent optimal immunization uptake, this research contributes to better health outcomes for children. Increasing immunization rates in Ozuoba will help reduce the prevalence of vaccine-preventable diseases, thus enhancing the overall well-being of the community. This can lead to a healthier population with lower rates of childhood illness, which is essential for long-term community resilience.
Additionally, the findings of this study can serve as a foundation for designing educational programs and materials aimed at raising awareness about the importance of immunization. Such resources can be utilized within the community to counteract misinformation and encourage informed health decisions among parents. Improved knowledge and awareness can foster positive attitudes towards vaccination, which in turn supports higher immunization rates.
Finally, healthcare providers in the Ozuoba community stand to benefit from a better understanding of the perspectives of mothers regarding immunization. Insights into mothers’ concerns, misconceptions, and needs can help healthcare workers improve their communication and support strategies. By understanding these perspectives, providers can make mothers feel more informed and comfortable with immunization, strengthening the relationship between healthcare workers and the community. This improved rapport can play a crucial role in enhancing trust in health services, ultimately leading to more consistent immunization uptake and improved child health outcomes.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The scope of this study is limited to mothers residing in the Ozuoba community within Obio/Akpor L.G.A of Rivers State. The study focuses on assessing their knowledge and attitudes towards immunization services, with particular attention to factors influencing these attitudes. The study does not cover other communities within Obio/Akpor or broader geographical regions outside Rivers State.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
- Immunization: The process by which individuals are protected from infectious diseases through the administration of vaccines.
- Knowledge: The understanding or awareness of facts, information, and principles regarding immunization, including benefits, schedules, and risks.
- Attitude: The perception or disposition of mothers towards immunization, which may be positive or negative, based on their beliefs and experiences.
- Vaccine-Preventable Diseases: Illnesses that can be prevented through vaccination, such as measles, polio, and diphtheria.
- Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI): A global initiative launched by the World Health Organization to ensure that all children have access to vaccines against common infectious diseases.
- Uptake: The rate at which immunization services are utilized or accepted by the target population.
- Health Education: Programs or activities aimed at providing individuals with knowledge and skills to make informed health decisions, such as the importance of immunization.
- Health Services Accessibility: The ease with which health services, such as immunization, are available to the community members, including geographical, financial, and social factors.