Immunization Coverage among Children Aged Between 12-23 Months in West Pokot County, Kenya
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Date
2024-08
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Kenyatta University
Abstract
Immunization coverage and healthcare utilization among children aged 12-23 months
significantly impact public health outcomes. However, in West Pokot County, Kenya, these
indicators remain suboptimal, posing challenges to achieving optimal child health. The
main aim of this research was to assess the vaccination rates among children in West Pokot
County, Kenya, between the ages of 12 and 23 months. The objectives of the study were
to (i) calculate the immunization coverage among children aged 12-23 months in West
Pokot County, Kenya; (ii) analyze the factors influencing immunization coverage among
the same demographic; and (iii) assess the effects of healthcare utilization on immunization
coverage among children aged 12-23 months in West Pokot County, Kenya. A cross sectional study design was employed, involving a sample of 393 children aged 12-23
months and their caregivers in West Pokot County, Kenya. Data was collected through
structured interviews, questionnaire and focus group discussion. Descriptive and
inferential statistical analyses were conducted to examine the relationships between various
factors and immunization coverage, as well as healthcare utilization. The study revealed
that West Pokot County, 62.4% of mothers or guardians partially vaccinated their children,
while 36.6% completely immunized them, and only 1.1% did not vaccinate their children
at all. This indicates that only a third of children in the county have received all
recommended vaccinations, revealing a significant gap in achieving desired coverage. The
study identified parental age as a key determinant, with older caregivers more likely to
completely vaccinate their children. Furthermore, a negative correlation was found
between the number of children in a household and vaccination coverage. Teachers and
farmers were more likely to have their children completely vaccinated compared to those
in other occupations, highlighting the impact of parental occupation on vaccination rates.
Additionally, respondents who paid for vaccination services were more likely to fully
immunize their children. Healthcare utilization significantly influenced vaccination
coverage, as respondents who visited a healthcare facility during the previous year were
more likely to completely immunize their children. Hence the study concludes that findings
underscore the importance of addressing sociodemographic factors, such as parental age,
occupation, and financial capability, to enhance vaccination coverage among children aged
12-23 months in West Pokot County. Encouraging regular healthcare visits and promoting
healthcare-seeking behavior among parents and caregivers are crucial for improving
vaccination rates. This study recommended Conduct regular immunization coverage
surveys with local health facilities and community health workers for informed decision making. Analyze factors influencing immunization coverage and develop targeted
interventions. Assess healthcare utilization patterns among mothers and guardians and
implement measures to enhance healthcare service delivery
Description
A Thesis Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Award of the Degree of Master of Public Health (Epidemiology and Disease Control) in the School of Health Sciences of Kenyatta University ,August 2024
Supervisors:
1. Isaac Mwanzo
2. Eliphas Gitonga