Factors influencing childhood immunization uptake in Kampala: a case study of Nakawa Division

Abstract

Over time, different percentages of Ugandan children have received all recommended vaccinations. The effectiveness of an immunization program depends on having a clear understanding of vaccination behavior. This study sought to analyze the behavioral, socio-economic and demographic factors affecting childhood immunization uptake. Analysis was done on a sample of 200 respondents from Nakawa division in Kampala city. Baseline characteristics were represented by proportions and percentages. Binary logistic regression was used to establish the correlations of childhood immunization uptake. The findings showed that the age of a caretaker between the ages of 36 and 46 is significantly associated with childhood immunization uptake (p-value 0.040), and these households are 70% (OR 0.3) less likely to have immunization uptake than households with caretakers between the ages of 20 and 24. Immunization uptake was significantly impacted by the caretaker’s knowledge of the numerous government initiatives for childhood immunization (p-value 0.024). Distance to health facility was significant with childhood immunization uptake for the 3 to 4km distance and above 4km (p values 0.000 and 0.004). Respondents with a 3 to 4km distance and above 4km to health facility were about 4 and 5 times more likely to take part in childhood immunization than those within a 2km distance of the health facility respectively (OR 4.1 and 5.3). The study provides imperative insights into the factors affecting childhood immunization uptake. In light of the findings, the age of the caretaker, knowledge of the different government programs on childhood immunization and distance to the nearest health facility have a significant impact on childhood immunization uptake. There is, therefore, a need to carry out more sensitization of the people on the need for childhood immunization uptake as this will significantly increase the number of parents that take part in the process.