Gambo, P. W
Department of Public Health, National Open University of Nigeria
Doris Atibinye Dotimi
Department of Community Health, Bayelsa Medical University, Nigeria
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: To control the spread of disease in a society Childhood
immunisation is fundamental. The low level of immunization uptake among
children 0-5years highlights the need to investigate parents awareness,
perception and practice about childhood immunization.This study evaluates
parents’ awareness, perception, and practice of childhood immunization in
Ughelli South, Delta State.
METHOD: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 420
parents using a structured questionnaire. Data collected included awareness
of immunization and its schedule, perception of vaccine importance, safety,
and effectiveness, as well as parental practices regarding vaccine uptake and
adherence to appointments. Descriptive statistics were applied in data
analysis.
RESULTS: Awareness of childhood immunization was nearly universal
(98.3%), although only 68.3% of respondents were aware of the
recommended immunization schedule. Health facilities (70%) were the main
source of information. Most parents (95%) considered immunization very
important and 98.3% agreed it is effective in preventing diseases, though
56.7% expressed concern about vaccine safety. A large proportion (83.3%)
supported mandatory vaccination for children. Regarding practice, 90% of
parents had all their children vaccinated according to the recommended
schedule, and 90% reported never missing an appointment. However, only
11.7% could correctly recall all the vaccines received by their children.
Reported side effects were low (8.3%), and only 0.5% reported mortality
related to vaccination. Access to immunization services was generally good,
with 86.7% reporting no challenges.
CONCLUSION: The study shows very high awareness, positive
perceptions, and strong adherence to immunization schedules among parents.
However, concerns about vaccine safety and limited knowledge of specific
vaccines remain significant gaps. Strengthening health education, improving
communication on vaccine types and schedules, and addressing safety
concerns could further enhance uptake and completion of childhood immunization in Nigeria