Knowledge and Behaviour Towards Tetanus Toxoid Immunisation in South-South, Nigeria: Findings from Antenatal Clinic Attendees

Abstract

Tetanus infection has remained a major health problem in the third world countries despite the availability and accessibility of effective antibodies as vaccines. The knowledge of women about the diseases may affect their behavior with regards to prevention of the disease. This was a descriptive cross sectional study to assess the knowledge and behavior towards tetanus toxoid immunization by 252 antenatal clinic attendees in two health facilities Uyo metropolis. The majority of respondents had heard about Tetanus infection 247(98.1%) and tetanus toxoid (97.2%), with Health workers being the main source of information 213 (85.9%). Most, 228(90.5%) knew it is for prevention, while only 80 (31.7%) were aware 5 doses confer lifetime immunity. Most of the women 236 (93.7%) had received at least a dose of TT; 123(52.1%) had up to 5 doses, while 184(78%) claimed they had completed the immunisation schedule. The commonest reason some had not received any was its not being offered to them (31.3%). There was a global positive attitude towards TT immunisation. The level of education but not age of respondents was statistically associated with being immunized (P=0.001).The study showed a fairly good awareness of tetanus infection and immunisation with  misconceptions and a good disposition unmatched by practice. There is therefore the need for proper health education especially on the number of doses, intervals/ schedules, the protection offered, as well as need for the evaluation of the content of health enlightenment information provided by health personnel to mothers attending ANCs