Currently submitted to: JMIR Preprints
Date Submitted: Dec 29, 2024
Open Peer Review Period: Dec 29, 2024 - Dec 14, 2025
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Closing the Gap: Assessment of Vaccination Coverage Among Under Two Children in Bayelsa State, Nigeria
ABSTRACT
Background:
Rationale: Vaccination is a critical public health intervention for reducing childhood morbidity and mortality, yet vaccination coverage remains suboptimal in regions like Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Understanding the factors influencing vaccination uptake is essential to addressing the barriers to complete immunization and achieving universal health goals.
Objective:
Objective:
This study assessed the vaccination coverage among children under two years in Bayelsa State, identifying key barriers and proposing targeted interventions to improve immunization rates.
Methods:
Method(s): A Randomized Control Trial (RCT) design was employed, with 1,220 participants recruited using a multi-stage sampling technique. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs). Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS, while thematic analysis was applied to qualitative data.
Results:
Results:
The study revealed a vaccination compliance rate of 88.9%, with 65.0% achieving full vaccination. Barriers to vaccination included logistical challenges such as forgetfulness (8.3%), distance to healthcare facilities (4.4%), and fear of needles (2.8%). Significant demographic factors included maternal education and occupation, influencing vaccination completion.
Conclusions:
Conclusions:
While awareness and compliance are relatively high, gaps in complete immunization persist due to structural and logistical barriers. Addressing these barriers is crucial to improving vaccination coverage and reducing vaccine-preventable diseases. Implement mobile vaccination units and automated reminders, enhance health worker training for patient-friendly services and conduct targeted health education campaigns. This study underscores the importance of tailored interventions in increasing vaccination coverage. Enhancing access and addressing barriers can significantly improve child health outcomes in underserved regions.
Citation
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