Mothers’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding the Expanded Programme on Immunization in the Konobougou Health Area
TL;DR
Mothers recognized the importance of EPI and had their children vaccinated, but knowledge of the schedule, target diseases, and AEFIs remained inadequate and educational communication adapted to low literacy levels is needed.
Abstract
Introduction: Immunization is among the most effective and least costly interventions for preventing infectious diseases. This study assessed mothers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI). Materials and methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from February to May 2022 among 219 mothers of children aged 0–23 months who lived in the Konobougou health area. A community household survey used a face-to-face questionnaire. Data were analyzed with SPSS 22. Results: Overall, 64.4% of participants had no formal schooling. All had heard of the immunization program, but 72.6% described the schedule incorrectly. According to maternal report, 95.9% of children were up to date with immunization. Adverse events following immunization (AEFIs) were unknown to 74.9% of mothers, and 81.3% did not know the appropriate response to an AEFI. Conclusion: Mothers recognized the importance of EPI and had their children vaccinated, but knowledge of the schedule, target diseases, and AEFIs remained inadequate. Educational communication adapted to low literacy levels is needed. Keywords: knowledge; attitudes; practices; mothers; immunization.