Potential of improving full vaccination status of children in Niamey, Niger; a randomized cluster survey

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Economically-disadvantaged Sub-Saharan African children are not fully protected from vaccine-preventable diseases. Maternal education is a promoting factor associated with child vaccination. However, both socio-economic status and maternal education factors are not easily modifiable. This study aimed to identify factors associated with full vaccination status of children in Niamey, Niger. Methods: A cross-sectional, multi-stage randomized cluster survey was conducted in Niamey’s five health districts. Data on vaccination coverage and socio-economic household characteristics were collected. Logistic regression analysis was conducted with data on 445 pairs of mothers and their children aged 12-23 months.Results: Of 445 children, 38% were fully vaccinated. Mothers who were satisfied with their health worker’s attitude and had correct vaccination calendar knowledge (AOR 5.32, 95% CI 2.05-13.82) were more likely to have fully vaccinated children. Mothers who had completed secondary school (AOR 2.04, 95% CI 1.17-3.55) were also associated with fully vaccinated children. Conclusions: Low coverage of full vaccination could be improved through modifiable factors in resource-limited settings such as Niger. Communication interventions may be effective, including improving mothers’ knowledge about vaccination timing and intervals between appointments. Health workers’ attitudes should also be improved with better interpersonal communication with the mothers.