Maternal Knowledge, Perception And Practice Of Childhood Immunization In Calabar South, Nigeria.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Immunization of children against serious infectious diseases is among the most successful and cost-effective interventions in preventive healthcare. Factors influencing demand for immunization varies greatly by region and context.
This study was aimed at determining the knowledge, perception and practice of childhood immunization among mothers’ utilizing healthcare centres in Calabar South Local Government Area, Cross River State, Nigeria.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a crosssectional descriptive study. A pretested semi-structured interviewer administered questionnaire was used to collect data from 250 mothers of children aged 0-59 months. Respondents were drawn from four randomly
selected healthcare centres in the study area. Data was analysed using SPSS version 20.0 with p-value < 0.05 taken as significant.

RESULTS: Majority of the mothers 248 (99.2%) had heard about immunization with 142 (56.8%) indicating that their source of information was from healthcare workers. Most of the mothers (97.2%) agreed that immunization prevents the killer diseases of children. Older and literate mothers were more likely to immunize their children at the right age. Mother’s marital status had no significant relationship with immunization at the right age. Most mothers (76.4%) immunization at the right age while 90% accepted
immunization during campaigns. All mothers had positive perception of childhood immunization.

CONCLUSION: Most mothers in this study had knowledge of immunization. Age and educational status were significantly related to immunization at the right age. They had positive perception towards immunization which is commendable and should be encouraged.