An Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Nursing Mothers Toward Routine Child Immunization in Damaturu Metropolis

Abstract

Background: Childhood immunisation is one of the most effective public health interventions for reducing under-five morbidity and mortality globally. Despite its proven effectiveness, immunisation coverage remains suboptimal in many low- and middle-income countries, including Nigeria, where vaccine-preventable diseases continue to contribute significantly to childhood deaths. Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) of nursing mothers towards routine child immunisation and to identify factors associated with incomplete vaccination in Damaturu Metropolis, Yobe State, Nigeria. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed in ten selected primary healthcare facilities in Damaturu Metropolis, Yobe State, Nigeria, between March and May 2026. Two hundred nursing mothers with children aged 0-24 months were recruited using a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire adapted from validated KAP instruments. Knowledge, attitude and practice scores were computed, and descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages and means) were analysed using SPSS version 25. Results: Overall, 62.5% of mothers had adequate knowledge (mean score: 5.8/8). Major knowledge gaps included the number of pentavalent doses (56.0% correct), vaccination during mild illness (48.0% correct) and vaccine protection beyond two years (41.0% correct). Favourable attitudes were observed in 86.5% of mothers, but only 48.5% demonstrated good immunisation practice. Although 92.0% had ever taken their child for immunisation, only 61.0% reported full completion for the child’s age. Missed appointments were reported by 44.0% of mothers, mainly due to the child’s illness (38.6%), forgetfulness (25.0%) and distance to the facility (18.2%). Only 51.0% received reminders from health workers. Conclusion: Despite adequate knowledge and positive attitudes, immunisation practices remain suboptimal because of specific misconceptions, weak reminder systems and practical barriers. Targeted health education, reminder mechanisms and improved service accessibility are needed to close the KAP gap in Damaturu Metropolis.