Understanding the Socio-Economic and Demographic Factors Affecting Uptake of Second Dose Measles Vaccination (MCV2) among Children Under 5 in Ebonyi State, South-Eastern Nigeria

Abstract

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that poses a significant threat to children worldwide. Vaccination programs have been successful in reducing the burden of measles, but the complete protection against the disease requires two doses of the measles-containing vaccine (MCV 2). The study sought to identify the socio-economic and demographic factors that affect uptake of second dose of measles vaccine (MCV2) and explore the opportunities available to mitigate the challenges in Ebonyi state. Community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the selected areas. One focal health facility was selected in each LGA, and the target population was the birth cohort of children born between 22nd March 2021 and 22nd February 2022. The adjusted sample size for this study is 409. Results/Factors identified are child got sick after first dose, no chance to go to facility, frequent cancellation of immunization sessions, caregivers not aware of the second dose, forgetfulness, assumption of first dose being adequate for the child, relocation, no vaccine at facility and 69% of mothers and caregivers are worried that vaccines can cause a child to be sick. Among socio-demographic characteristics; there are no significant association between MCV 2 and age of the mother, maternal educational status, family monthly income, family size, and number of children alive. However, the study showed significant association between maternal occupation and vaccine out of stock at the health facility with low uptake of MCV2. Therefore, health education on the importance of MCV2 should be intensified at all levels.