An assessment of maternal knowledge and attitudes towards childhood immunization in Kano State
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Background of the Study
Childhood immunization is one of the most effective public health interventions for preventing vaccine-preventable diseases. In Kano State, the success of immunization programs largely depends on maternal knowledge and attitudes, as mothers are primarily responsible for making healthcare decisions for their children. Over recent years, studies have shown that maternal awareness about the benefits, schedule, and safety of vaccines directly influences immunization uptake (Adewale, 2023; Ibrahim, 2024). However, cultural beliefs, educational levels, and access to accurate information continue to shape maternal attitudes toward childhood immunization. In Kano State, while immunization coverage has improved, pockets of under-immunized populations remain due to inadequate understanding and negative perceptions about vaccines.
Mothers in Kano State often receive information about vaccines through community networks, religious gatherings, and healthcare centers. However, the dissemination of accurate, evidence-based information is frequently challenged by misinformation and traditional beliefs. These factors can lead to vaccine hesitancy and delays in immunization, contributing to outbreaks of preventable diseases. Furthermore, socio-economic disparities and limited access to health education exacerbate the problem, as mothers in rural or underserved urban areas may not fully understand the immunization schedule or the importance of completing the vaccine series (Chukwu, 2024).
The complexity of maternal attitudes is further influenced by past experiences with healthcare services and the perceived reliability of the healthcare system. For instance, if mothers encounter poor service delivery or adverse events following immunization, they may develop negative attitudes that hinder future vaccine acceptance. Therefore, it is crucial to assess maternal knowledge and attitudes comprehensively to design tailored interventions that address gaps in understanding and build trust in immunization programs. This study intends to explore the depth of maternal knowledge, the prevailing attitudes toward childhood immunization, and the factors influencing these perceptions. Ultimately, the findings are expected to provide insights that will inform policy-makers and healthcare providers in improving immunization outreach, education, and service delivery in Kano State (Ogunleye, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Despite concerted efforts to promote childhood immunization in Kano State, immunization coverage still lags in certain communities, primarily due to deficiencies in maternal knowledge and negative attitudes toward vaccines. Many mothers demonstrate gaps in understanding the benefits of immunization, the correct vaccination schedule, and the management of side effects, which leads to incomplete immunization of children. These gaps are further widened by cultural myths and misinformation, which often spread through informal channels, undermining trust in modern healthcare practices. The resultant vaccine hesitancy is a major barrier to achieving universal immunization coverage and protecting children from preventable diseases (Adewale, 2023).
Additionally, negative attitudes fueled by previous negative experiences with healthcare providers, fear of vaccine side effects, and inadequate health education contribute to low immunization uptake. This scenario places an extra burden on the healthcare system, as outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases continue to occur in areas where immunization rates are suboptimal. The limited scope of existing research on maternal knowledge and attitudes in Kano State makes it challenging to design targeted interventions that address these specific issues. Therefore, a comprehensive assessment is critical to identify the root causes of vaccine hesitancy among mothers, and to develop context-specific strategies that can improve immunization compliance.
Objectives of the Study
- To assess the level of maternal knowledge regarding childhood immunization in Kano State.
- To evaluate maternal attitudes towards childhood immunization.
- To identify factors influencing maternal perceptions and decision-making regarding vaccines.
Research Questions
- What is the current level of maternal knowledge about childhood immunization in Kano State?
- How do maternal attitudes influence childhood immunization uptake?
- What socio-cultural factors affect maternal decision-making regarding vaccines?
Research Hypotheses
- Higher levels of maternal knowledge are associated with increased immunization uptake.
- Negative maternal attitudes are significantly correlated with lower immunization coverage.
- Socio-cultural factors, including misinformation and traditional beliefs, significantly influence maternal vaccine hesitancy.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on mothers in urban and rural areas of Kano State. Data will be collected through structured questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions. Limitations include potential response biases, cultural sensitivities, and challenges in reaching remote communities.
Definitions of Terms
- Maternal Knowledge: The understanding that mothers have regarding vaccine schedules, benefits, and safety.
- Attitudes: Mothers’ beliefs, feelings, and perceptions about childhood immunization.
- Immunization Uptake: The rate at which children receive recommended vaccines.
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