KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICES TOWARDS CHILD IMMUNIZATION AMONG MOTHERS ATTENDING TO KISIITA HEALTH CENTER III, IN KAKUMIRO DISTRICT

Abstract

Introduction

The burden of un-immunized children in Uganda is 48% of children under the age of five years who are not immunized at all or partially immunized meaning some of them start immunization but do not complete the immunization schedule.

Methodology 

The study was based on a purposive sampling method in which 117 mothers were enrolled in the study; the study employed a structured questionnaire which was administered by the researcher and the research assistants to collect data. 

Results

Majority of the mothers; we're in the 21- 30 age group 60(51.3%), 84(71.8%) were married, 50(42.7%) were banyankore by tribe, majority 63(53.8%) were farmers, 40(34.1%) were Catholics, those who attained secondary education level were 63(53.8%). Of those who had heard about child immunization 73%, majority 44(37.6%) heard about it from radio, majority 60(51.3%) mentioned fever as the side effect they know following immunization, 57(48.7%) mentioned 3 and more child immunizable diseases, and majority mentioned others about the importance of child immunization, 34(29.1%) mentioned that immunization promotes child health, 20(17.1%) it protects from serious diseases, 19(16.2%) reduces risk of child death rates. The majority, 71% of the respondents said yes in support of child immunization services being carried out, 68% agreed that they would encourage others to bring their children for immunization, and 70% said yes the support of immunization programs to continue. The majority 71% had ever taken their children for immunization.

Conclusions

Majority of the mothers knew child immunization, its importance towards their children’s health, and the VPDs. Recommendations

Government should come up with programs creating awareness concerning the importance of child immunization as well as providing health education to parents about the Vaccine Preventable Diseases.