Immunization is one of the most effective strategies for preventing childhood diseases, yet vaccine hesitancy remains a significant challenge in Nigeria (Adebayo & Hassan, 2023). In northern states like Zamfara, factors such as cultural beliefs, misinformation, and inadequate healthcare access contribute to low immunization rates (Bello & Adamu, 2024).
Nurses play a vital role in increasing immunization awareness and encouraging mothers to comply with vaccination schedules. Their efforts include health education, counseling, and community outreach programs (Olawale et al., 2024). However, the extent of mothers' awareness and compliance with immunization programs in Zamfara State remains uncertain.
This study seeks to evaluate immunization awareness and compliance among mothers attending Zamfara State General Hospital, identifying barriers and recommending strategies to improve vaccination rates.
Despite widespread immunization campaigns, vaccine-preventable diseases remain prevalent in Zamfara State (Abdullahi & Musa, 2023). Low immunization compliance among mothers has led to outbreaks of measles, polio, and pneumonia. Barriers such as misinformation, religious beliefs, and healthcare inaccessibility contribute to vaccine hesitancy (Umar et al., 2024).
This study aims to assess mothers' awareness levels, compliance with immunization schedules, and the role of nurses in promoting vaccination.