Predators of government initiated child immunization programme in Okpuje, Enugu State, Nigeria

Abstract

Immunization programme in Nigeria is still untapped to save lives and protect children from illness and disease. Although vaccines are provided relatively free by government, the country still accounts for the highest prevalence of circulating wild polio virus. This work focused on the predators of government initiated child immunization programme in Okpuje town, Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu state. The sample size of 112 was used for the study. Data generated using questionnaire were analyzed using SPSS in determining the frequency counts and percentages, while chi-square was used to test the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. Findings revealed that age, literacy level and consistency in utilizing immunization vaccines by nursing mothers were great predators of the government initiated child immunization programme. Recommendations were on organizing and disseminating information on health programme, recruitment of health care social workers to embark on educational advocacy programme in enlightening nursing mothers on the need for a full dose immunization service.