INVESTIGATION INTO NURSING MOTHERS' KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDES, COMPLIANCE WITH THE INFANT IMMUNIZATION SCHEDULE, AND FACTORS INFLUENCING ROUTINE IMMUNIZATION UPTAKE IN IBADAN SOUTH EAST LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Abstract

This study investigates routine immunization among nursing mothers in Ibadan South East Local Government, focusing on socio-demographics, knowledge, attitudes, compliance, and factors influencing uptake. The mean age of respondents is 30.1±5.28 years, with a majority being young mothers. Understanding this demographic is vital for targeted educational programs. The sample is primarily educated (53.6% tertiary education), emphasizing the importance of accurate information dissemination. Cultural and religious contexts, occupation, and income are also crucial factors affecting immunization decisions. Aims: The study aims to assess nursing mothers' knowledge, attitudes, compliance with the infant immunization schedule, and factors influencing routine immunization uptake. It employs a multi-stage sampling technique, gathering data from 302 mothers in Ibadan South East LGA. Methods: Data analysis involves statistical tools, including frequency counts, percentages, bar charts, and pie charts. The research questions explore knowledge gaps, attitudes, compliance rates, and socio-demographic associations. Results: Respondents exhibit high awareness (93.0%) of immunization, with friends and family being the primary information source (69.9%). While most understand the purpose of immunization, knowledge gaps exist regarding specific vaccines and timing. Positive attitudes prevail (70.5% strongly agreeing to vaccination despite objections). Compliance is at 54.0%, indicating room for improvement. Factors influencing uptake include religious beliefs, geographic barriers, healthcare staff attitudes, cost, vaccine availability, and spousal influence. Conclusion: Nursing mothers demonstrate good overall knowledge and positive attitudes toward immunization. However, knowledge gaps and suboptimal compliance underscore the need for targeted education campaigns. Sociodemographic factors significantly influence compliance, emphasizing the importance of tailored interventions.