Vaccine Hesitancy to Childhood Immunisation Among Mothers in Maiduguri
Abstract
This study investigated the factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy among mothers in Maiduguri, Nigeria, and explored strategies to address this issue to improve childhood immunization rates. A quantitative survey research design was adopted to collect data from a sample of 120 respondents using a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire comprised statements addressing various aspects of vaccine hesitancy, childhood immunization rates, and strategies for improvement. SPSS27 was utilized to present and analyze the collected data, employing descriptive statistics to summarize the demographic characteristics of the respondents and inferential statistics, such as t-tests, to test the hypotheses stated. The findings of the study revealed significant associations between lack of awareness about vaccines and vaccine hesitancy among mothers in Maiduguri, indicating a need for targeted educational interventions to address this issue. Moreover, the study found a positive correlation between vaccine hesitancy among mothers and lower childhood immunization rates, emphasizing the importance of addressing vaccine hesitancy to improve immunization coverage. Based on the results of the t-tests conducted, it was concluded that implementing targeted educational interventions could lead to a reduction in vaccine hesitancy and an increase in childhood immunization uptake among mothers in Maiduguri. In conclusion, the study underscores the critical role of addressing vaccine hesitancy in enhancing childhood immunization rates and preventing the spread of preventable diseases in the community. To this end, recommendations include the development and implementation of culturally sensitive health education programs, engaging community leaders to promote vaccines, and providing accessible vaccination services through mobile clinics. These recommendations aim to address the identified barriers to vaccination and improve immunization coverage among children in Maiduguri, ultimately contributing to better public health outcomes.
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
Introduction
Childhood immunization is a critical aspect of public health, preventing millions of deaths worldwide each year. Despite its proven efficacy, vaccine hesitancy, characterized by reluctance or refusal to vaccinate, remains a significant obstacle. In Maiduguri, Nigeria, maternal vaccine hesitancy is a contributing factor to suboptimal immunization coverage rates, heightening children’s vulnerability to vaccine-preventable diseases. This introduction sets the stage for exploring the complex interplay of factors influencing vaccine hesitancy among mothers in Maiduguri and the subsequent impact on childhood immunization efforts. Understanding these dynamics is essential for developing targeted interventions to address vaccine hesitancy and improve immunization rates.
Background to the Study
Childhood immunization is a cornerstone of public health, preventing millions of deaths worldwide annually (Brahmbhatt et al., 2020). Vaccines have been proven to be highly effective in preventing a wide range of infectious diseases, including measles, polio, and diphtheria. Despite the widespread availability of vaccination services, vaccine hesitancy remains a significant challenge globally (Masuda & Yamauchi, 2020). Vaccine hesitancy is defined as the delay in acceptance or refusal of vaccines, often due to concerns about safety, efficacy, or religious beliefs.
In Maiduguri, Nigeria, vaccine hesitancy among mothers has been identified as a significant barrier to achieving optimal immunization coverage rates (Tade, 2022). This hesitancy is influenced by various socio-cultural and religious factors, including misinformation about vaccines, mistrust in healthcare systems, and traditional beliefs. As a result, many children in Maiduguri are left vulnerable to vaccine-preventable diseases, putting their health and well-being at risk (Brahmbhatt et al., 2020).
The consequences of vaccine hesitancy in Maiduguri are dire, as it leads to increased vulnerability to vaccine-preventable diseases among children (Tade, 2022). Suboptimal immunization coverage rates not only endanger the health of individual children but also pose a public health threat by allowing the transmission of infectious diseases within the community. Without adequate protection through immunization, children are at risk of suffering from serious illnesses and complications that could have been prevented through vaccination (Brahmbhatt et al., 2020).
Efforts to address vaccine hesitancy in Maiduguri must take into account the unique socio-cultural context of the community (Masuda & Yamauchi, 2020). Engaging with local religious and community leaders, as well as utilizing culturally sensitive communication strategies, can help build trust and confidence in vaccines. Additionally, providing accurate information about the safety and efficacy of vaccines through community outreach and education programs is essential in addressing misconceptions and dispelling myths surrounding immunization (Tade, 2022).
Healthcare providers play a crucial role in addressing vaccine hesitancy and promoting childhood immunization in Maiduguri (Brahmbhatt et al., 2020). By fostering open and respectful communication with mothers, healthcare professionals can address concerns and provide evidence-based information to help parents make informed decisions about vaccinating their children. Moreover, ensuring that vaccination services are accessible and convenient for families can help improve immunization coverage rates in the community (Masuda & Yamauchi, 2020).
In essence, vaccine hesitancy among mothers in Maiduguri poses a significant challenge to achieving optimal childhood immunization coverage rates. Addressing this issue requires a multi-faceted approach that involves engaging with the community, providing accurate information, and ensuring access to vaccination services. By working collaboratively with local stakeholders and implementing culturally sensitive interventions, it is possible to overcome vaccine hesitancy and protect children from vaccine-preventable diseases in Maiduguri.
Statement of Problem
The issue of vaccine hesitancy among mothers in Maiduguri, Nigeria persists, contributing to suboptimal childhood immunization coverage rates (Brahmbhatt et al., 2020). While some research has explored vaccine hesitancy in other contexts, there remains a gap in understanding the specific socio-cultural and religious factors influencing maternal vaccine hesitancy in Maiduguri (Tade, 2022). Existing studies have often overlooked the unique challenges faced by mothers in this region, such as misinformation, mistrust in healthcare systems, and traditional beliefs (Masuda & Yamauchi, 2020). Additionally, there is a lack of research focusing on effective strategies for addressing vaccine hesitancy within the Maiduguri community (Brahmbhatt et al., 2020). Consequently, there is a need for research that delves deeper into the root causes of vaccine hesitancy among mothers in Maiduguri and identifies culturally sensitive interventions to improve immunization rates.
Furthermore, while some studies have examined the impact of vaccine hesitancy on immunization coverage, there is limited research on the broader consequences of suboptimal immunization rates in Maiduguri (Masuda & Yamauchi, 2020). This gap in the literature hinders our understanding of the public health implications of vaccine hesitancy, including the potential resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases and the economic burden on healthcare systems. Additionally, there is a need to explore the experiences and perspectives of healthcare providers in Maiduguri who are on the front lines of addressing vaccine hesitancy (Tade, 2022). Understanding their challenges and insights can inform the development of effective strategies for engaging with hesitant mothers and improving immunization coverage rates.
Moreover, existing research on vaccine hesitancy often focuses on individual-level factors, neglecting the broader socio-economic determinants that influence maternal decision-making regarding immunization (Brahmbhatt et al., 2020). Factors such as poverty, access to healthcare services, and social norms may significantly impact vaccine acceptance among mothers in Maiduguri, yet their role remains understudied. Addressing this gap in the literature is crucial for developing comprehensive interventions that address the structural barriers to vaccination and promote health equity in the community (Masuda & Yamauchi, 2020). Therefore, there is a pressing need for research that adopts a multidimensional approach to understanding vaccine hesitancy in Maiduguri, taking into account both individual and contextual factors.
Objectives of the Study
The specific objectives of this study include:
- To investigate the factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy among mothers in Maiduguri.
- To assess the impact of vaccine hesitancy on childhood immunization rates in Maiduguri.
- To explore strategies to address vaccine hesitancy and improve childhood immunization uptake among mothers in Maiduguri.
Research Questions
The following research questions were examined:
- What are the primary factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy among mothers in Maiduguri?
- How does vaccine hesitancy impact childhood immunization rates in Maiduguri?
- What strategies can be employed to address vaccine hesitancy and improve childhood immunization uptake among mothers in Maiduguri?
Research Hypotheses
The following hypotheses were tested:
- There is no significant association between lack of awareness about vaccines and vaccine hesitancy among mothers in Maiduguri.
- Vaccine hesitancy among mothers in Maiduguri positively affects childhood immunization rates.
- Implementation of targeted educational interventions will not lead to a reduction in vaccine hesitancy and an increase in childhood immunization uptake among mothers in Maiduguri.
Significance of the Study
The significance of this study lies in its potential to address a pressing public health issue in Maiduguri, Nigeria, and beyond. Childhood immunization is fundamental to preventing the spread of infectious diseases and reducing morbidity and mortality among children globally. However, vaccine hesitancy among mothers poses a significant barrier to achieving optimal immunization coverage rates, leaving children vulnerable to vaccine-preventable diseases.
By investigating the factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy among mothers in Maiduguri, this study can provide valuable insights into the root causes of low immunization rates in the region. Understanding the socio-cultural and religious factors influencing maternal vaccine acceptance is crucial for developing targeted interventions that address community-specific concerns and misconceptions. By tailoring interventions to the unique context of Maiduguri, this study has the potential to improve immunization coverage rates and protect children from vaccine-preventable diseases.
Furthermore, this study can contribute to the broader body of literature on vaccine hesitancy and childhood immunization. While vaccine hesitancy is a global phenomenon, its underlying drivers may vary across different communities and cultures. By conducting research in Maiduguri, Nigeria, this study can provide valuable insights into the socio-cultural and religious factors influencing maternal vaccine acceptance in a context that has received limited attention in the literature. The findings of this study can thus enrich our understanding of vaccine hesitancy and inform strategies for addressing it in other settings facing similar challenges.
Additionally, this study can inform policy and practice aimed at improving childhood immunization efforts in Maiduguri and beyond. By identifying effective strategies for addressing vaccine hesitancy and improving immunization coverage rates, this research can guide the development and implementation of evidence-based interventions. These interventions may include community engagement and education programs, training for healthcare providers, and targeted communication campaigns. By partnering with local stakeholders and leveraging community resources, policymakers and public health practitioners can work together to implement sustainable solutions that promote vaccine acceptance and uptake.
Moreover, this study can contribute to efforts to achieve global immunization goals, such as those outlined in the World Health Organization’s Immunization Agenda 2030. By identifying barriers to immunization and strategies for overcoming them, this research can support initiatives aimed at increasing vaccination coverage and reducing the burden of vaccine-preventable diseases worldwide. By addressing vaccine hesitancy at the local level, this study has the potential to contribute to broader efforts to strengthen immunization systems and improve health outcomes for children and communities around the world.
Scope of the Study
This study focused on vaccine hesitancy among mothers in Maiduguri, Nigeria, and its impact on childhood immunization rates. It involved qualitative and quantitative research methods to explore the factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy, assess its impact on immunization rates, and propose strategies for intervention. The study was conducted within a specified timeframe and geographical area to ensure the feasibility and relevance of the findings.
Operational Definition of Terms
Vaccine Hesitancy: The delay in acceptance or refusal of vaccines despite the availability of vaccination services.
Childhood Immunization: The process of vaccinating children against vaccine-preventable diseases, typically starting from infancy.
Mothers: Female caregivers or guardians responsible for the health and well-being of children.
Maiduguri: A city in northeastern Nigeria, serving as the capital of Borno State.
Immunization Rates: The percentage of children who have received recommended vaccines within a specified population and timeframe.
Factors Contributing to Vaccine Hesitancy: Various socio-cultural, religious, economic, and healthcare-related factors influencing mothers’ decisions regarding vaccination.
Impact on Childhood Immunization Rates: The effect of vaccine hesitancy on the proportion of children who are fully immunized according to national immunization schedules.
Strategies for Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy: Interventions aimed at increasing awareness, addressing misconceptions, improving access to vaccines, and enhancing trust in vaccination among mothers in Maiduguri.
References
- Frederick, J., Wertz, K. C., Linda, M. M., Ruthellen, J., Rosemarie, A., & Emalinda, M. (2021). Five ways of doing qualitative analysis: phenomenological psychology,
- Galadima, A. N., Zulkafi, N. M., Salmiah, M. S. W., & Ahmed, N. (2021). Factors influencing childhood Immunisation uptake in Africa: a systematic review. BMC Public Health, 21, 1475. doi: 10.1186/s12889-021-11466-5
- Galbraith-Gyan, K. V., Lechuga, J., Jenerette, C. M., Palmer, M. H., Moore, A. D., & Hamilton, J. B. (2019). HPV vaccine acceptance among African-American mothers and their daughters: an inquiry grounded in culture. EthnoHealth, 24(3), 323–340. doi: 10.1080/13557858.2017.1332758
- Goddard, W., & Melville, S. (2020). Research Methodology: An Introduction (2nd ed.). Blackwell Publishing.
- Gray, D. E. (2018). Doing Research in the Real World. SAGE Publications.
IF YOU CAN'T FIND YOUR TOPIC, CLICK HERE TO HIRE A WRITER»
