Demand-side Factors Affecting Routine Immunization Uptake in the Delta of Bayelsa State, Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Analytical Study

Immunization, a key tool of primary health care and a critical line of defence against many diseases in vulnerable groups, is one of the most cost effective interventions of man. However, suboptimal immunization of children in Bayelsa state has resulted in the outbreak of disease epidemics. This study assessed demand-side factors affecting uptake of routine immunization. A cross sectional analytic study design was employed. Data was collected, using a pilot-tested structured questionnaire, which was retrieved and analysed using multiple logistic regression. Distance from health facility (AOR – 2.564, p value< 0.01) was found to significantly affect uptake of vaccination. This is probably due to the deltaic terrain of Bayelsa State and the long travel time of riverine journeys. There is need to ensure that immunization services are brought closer to the people through investments in systems that ensure easy access to life-saving vaccines by vulnerable groups. Key words: Demand side factors, Immunization completion, Deltaic terrain, Distance from health facility.