Factors Explaining the Low Uptake of Measles Vaccines in Central 2, East Central, and South Western Parts of Uganda

Abstract

It should be noted that measles vaccines rates have remained low in Uganda; that is below 50%. This has an effect on the health of the children as they become prone to the infant killers which would otherwise be averted. Therefore, the use of vaccinations of children against killer diseases is crucial. This study therefore covered factors explaining the low uptakes of measles vaccines in East Central, Central 2 and Southwestern and data of 2011 UDHS was used. Methods: I used three methods for analysis which included, Univariate, bivariate and multivariate methods for analyzing the factors explaining the low uptakes of measles vaccines in Central 2, East central and Southwestern parts of Uganda among these factors with the use and review of literature from other sources. Seven determinants were identified and all of which fell under the socio-economic and demographic factors. These include, age, mother’s education, religion, wealth index, marital status, and place of residence. Results: For a sample of 2454 women in their reproductive ages prior to the survey, bivariate analysis shows that those residing in rural areas, higher education, in poorer wealth index, and age groups 15-19 had low uptakes of measles vaccinations. Multivariate analysis shows that age, level of education, residence, wealth index and religion were significantly associated with receiving measles vaccines. Conclusion: The study showed that age of the respondent in five group is paramount in measles vaccine even after controlling for access for immunization centers, attitude towards vaccine, age improves one’s knowledge about measles vaccine, changes individual attitude from traditional beliefs leading to misconceptions to correct knowledge and increases the bargaining power of women with men over measles vaccine, which gives women an edge over controlling their children’s health. In view of the above, the hypothesis is that the higher the age of an individual, the more knowledgeable about measles vaccine is true.