Barriers and Motivating Factors Influencing Timely Immunisation Completion Rates among Children Under Five in Southwestern Nigeria
Keywords:
Vaccination, Immunisation, Barriers, Motivating Factors, CaregiversAbstract
This study examined the barriers and motivating factors that affect the timely completion of immunization among children under five in Southwest Nigeria. Identifying these factors is crucial for developing effective strategies to improve immunisation rates. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Ogun and Oyo States using a multi-stage sampling technique. Data were collected from 786 caregivers of children aged 0-5 years through structured questionnaires and immunisation cards. Analyses were performed using SPSS version 25, with statistical significance set at p <0.05. The study found 61.5% of children had received all age-appropriate vaccines, while 38.5% had not. Key motivating factors included easy access to immunisation centres, fear of infectious diseases, well-coordinated immunisation services, free immunisation, peer influence, and encouragement from healthcare providers. Significant barriers included child illness or hospitalisation, prior side effects from vaccinations, and financial constraints for transportation. To improve vaccination completion rates, targeted interventions should address these barriers and leverage motivating factors.
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