Factors contributing to immunization coverage among children less than 5 years in Nadowli-Kaleo District of Upper West Region, Ghana

Abstract

Immunization is believed to prevent deaths from diseases such as diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough and measles in about 2.5 million children each year worldwide. Failure to vaccinate children in the required timeframe could result in disease outbreaks and increased costs. This study was to identify the causes of low vaccination coverage among children in Nadowli-Kaleo district, Ghana.An analytical cross-sectional study was adopted for this study. Three hundred and thirty-six participants (336) were recruited through a systematic sampling method. Data was collected using KoboCollect online data collection tool. Data was analyzed using Stata Version 17.0. Chi-square test was used to establish a link between the child’s immunization status and the independent variables. Finally, logistic regression was used to determine the degree of association. To determine statistical significance, a p-value of less than 0.05 at the 95 percent confidence level was employed.It was revealed that immunization status among children under-five was a little above average (55.4%). Factors that were significantly associated with child full immunization were mother’s or caregiver’s age, marital status, occupation, and current child’s birth order (p-value < 0.05). Other location-related factors significantly associated with full immunization of children were number of ANC visits, delivery location, and distance to health facility. Giving birth to a child at the health facility had higher chance of 2.12 times to be fully immunized than giving birth at home [AOR (95%CI) p-value=2.12 (1.14-3.94)0.017]. The health system related factors which were found to be statistically associated with child full immunization included time spent during immunization service and being informed when to come for the next vaccination.Immunization coverage is not very encouraging at our study site. To enhance childhood vaccination rates, we suggest expanding access to health services, institutional childbirth, and timely regular antenatal visits.