Perceived Barriers and Facilitators of Immunization Uptake among Mothers of Under-5 Children in Ushongo Local Government Area of Benue State

Abstract

Background: Childhood immunization is a protective and cost-effective measure against diseases, reducing children’s morbidity and mortality. The study assessed the perceived barriers and facilitators of immunization uptake among mothers of under-5 children in the Ushongo Local Government Area of Benue State. Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study: data was collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire from 390 respondents recruited using a multi-stage sampling technique. Data was analyzed using IBM SPSS version 25 at statistical significance level set at p-value <0.05. Result: For the majority of respondents (77.7%), the most common barrier to immunization uptake was paying for immunization services, while trust in healthcare services was reported as a major facilitator by the majority of respondents (99.0%). Conclusion: Overall, most children had good immunization uptake at health facilities located within accessible distance. However, free immunization services and reminders for visits indicated good compliance. It is crucial that the government subsidizes or makes immunization services free.