Compliance With Regimens of Existing Vaccines in Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State, Nigeria

Abstract

The factors associated with third dose of diphtheria, pertussis and tetanus (DPT3) uptake, a true indicator of compliance with required regimen of vaccines, in Anambra state, Nigeria, were investigated in a cross-sectional survey of 600 mothers (15–49). Being an older mother showed a positive association with compliance. Compliance was more among those who used the government health facilities for their health needs (χ2 = 12.286, p < .001). Satisfactory experiences with health service influenced compliance (χ2 = 8.542, p = .002). Those with good perception (30.1%) complied more (χ2 = 42.572, p < .001). Those who were aware that immunization protects the children against vaccine preventable diseases complied more (χ2 = 8.735, p = .002). In conclusion, the action-hesitancy model strengthens the Health Belief Model in explaining parents’ attitude to childhood immunization, as experience and perception of the health service influenced uptake more. Health education and campaigns should be directed at factors that would encourage mothers to adopt required behaviours.