Abstract
Immunization is a cost-effective approach aimed at improving child survival. Coverage is an indicator to monitor the progress towards achieving child survival and the strategy to reduce childhood morbidity and mortality. The study was a descriptive cross-sectional study among 300 mothers /caregivers attending a tertiary institution clinic for immunization of the children using immunization card and verbal response of the mother. Findings from the study showed that 220 (73.3%) of the index children were fully vaccinated for age while 80 (26.7%) were not. BCG was the commonest vaccine received by the respondents as 280 (93.3%) received it, followed by OPV, 261 (87.0%) and Pentavalent vaccine, 246 (82.0%). Majority of the index children were vaccinated for age with high BCG, OPV and Pentavalent vaccine coverage rates. Socio-demographic factors that influenced the utilization of immunization included the mothers’ level of education, occupation, reception of antenatal care. A better understanding of the immunization schedule is important in the design and implementation of immunization programmes. Educating mothers about vaccines and vaccine preventable diseases are recommended.
 Keywords: determinants, vaccination, tertiary hospital, childhood
Highlights
Immunization is a cost-effective approach aimed at improving child survival
For immunization to be effective as a long-term global childhood disease control strategy, it is essential for parents to continue to present their children for vaccination. (WHO, 2012) Receipt of vaccines at recommended ages and intervals ensures that the child is adequately protected from target diseases at all times
To achieve maximal protection against vaccine-preventable diseases, a child should receive all immunizations within recommended intervals as the percentage of children who have received the requisite number of vaccine doses irrespective of the age at receipt of the vaccine determines vaccination coverage. (Luman et al 2005) In Nigeria, routine immunization against the childhood vaccine preventable diseases requires the child to make five visits to a static immunization clinic
Summary
This study which utilised a descriptive, cross sectional study design was carried out at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH). UBTH provides secondary and tertiary care to the Edo and Delta States, its environs. It provides facilities for training of high and middle level manpower for the health industry. Thirty questionnaires were pre-tested using mothers attending clinic in the infant well baby clinic at the Central Hospital Benin City, Edo State for clarity, validity and reliability. Ethical clearance to conduct this research was sought and obtained from the University of Benin Teaching Hospital Research Ethics Committee and permission for the study was sought from the UBTH management, the Head of the Family Medicine Department and the matrons in charge of the immunization services. Written informed consent was obtained from each respondent (care giver) before conducting interviews
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