Factors Influencing Uptake of Measles-Rubella Vaccine among Pastoralist Children in Kajiado West Sub-County, Kenya

Vaccination programs are essential for preventing the spread of infectious diseases and protecting public health. Despite significant global progress, challenges remain, including reduced vaccine uptake rates. This study investigated the factors influencing the uptake of the measles-rubella vaccine among pastoralist children in Kajiado West Sub-County, Kenya. A descriptive cross-sectional design was used to collect data from a representative sample of the target population at a single point in time. The study targeted children under 2 years old in Keekonyokie and Iloodokilani Wards, with a total target population of 13,776 children. The sample size was 384 mothers, selected through stratified random sampling. Additionally, 30 healthcare providers were included using convenience sampling. Data was collected using structured questionnaires and key informant interviews with healthcare. Quantitative data was coded in Excel and analyzed using SPSS version 27 for descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data was analyzed using thematic analysis with MAXQDA. A high proportion of the participants were aged 25-32 years, earned less than Kshs. 10, 000, had completed primary school level of education, were married, and most were not employed. There was a significant association between distance from the health facility and uptake of MR vaccine (x2 =4.331, df=1, p=0.000, CI=95%). There was no significant association between availability of transport and uptake of MR vaccine (x2 =7.181, df=1, p=0.061, CI=95%). There was no significant association between attitude of health workers and uptake of MR vaccine (x2 =5.445, df=1, p=0.060, CI=95%). There was a significant association between social cultural beliefs and uptake of MR vaccine (x2 =3.237, df=1, p=0.010, CI=95%). There was a significant association between level of income and uptake of MR vaccine (x2 =8.479, df=1, p=0.000, CI=95%).