IMPROVING MATERNAL AWARENESS AND CHILDHOOD VACCINATION UPTAKE IN DELTA STATE, NIGERIA

Background:- Vaccination is globally recognized as one of the most effective public health interventions for reducing child mortality by preventing vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs) such as measles, polio, tuberculosis, and Haemophilus influenzae. However, in countries like Nigeria, inadequate knowledge about vaccination remains a major barrier to achieving optimal vaccine coverage. Despite the Nigerian government’s provision of free routine vaccination for children up to the age of two, many mothers are unaware of the need to complete the full vaccination schedule, which leads to missed vaccination opportunities in later childhood. This study aimed to assess the level of maternal knowledge regarding childhood vaccination in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria. Methods:- This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 321 mothers in Ughelli, Delta State, Nigeria. Data were collected using a pre-tested, self-administered questionnaire designed to assess knowledge about childhood vaccination. The survey was administered online, and the data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics to examine associations between socio-demographic factors and vaccination knowledge. Participants' socio-demographic characteristics, including ethnicity, employment status, and educational background, were recorded and analysed. Results:- The study sample was predominantly Urhobo (68.9%), with a majority of participants being semi-employed (50.2%) and having attained tertiary education (88.8%). Despite the high educational levels, 87.5% of the respondents demonstrated poor knowledge of the full vaccination schedule, particularly regarding vaccines required after the age of two. The study found no statistically significant association between socio-demographic factors such as ethnicity, employment status, and educational level and maternal knowledge of vaccination (p > 0.05). Discussion:- Although previous studies have shown a positive relationship between maternal education and vaccine uptake, this study revealed that socio-demographic variables had no significant impact on knowledge about vaccination schedules. Despite general awareness of the importance of vaccines, the study identified significant gaps in specific knowledge, particularly concerning vaccines required beyond the second year of life. These gaps highlight the need for improved communication strategies to ensure mothers understand the full vaccination process. Conclusion:- The findings underscore the critical need for targeted health promotion efforts to enhance maternal knowledge of childhood vaccination, particularly regarding vaccines beyond infancy. Comprehensive educational campaigns using mass media, social media, and community platforms are recommended to bridge these knowledge gaps. Healthcare workers should also be trained to deliver clear and consistent information on vaccination during routine maternal and child health visits to ensure timely and complete vaccination coverage.