Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Perception of Immunization among Nursing Mothers attending Primary Health Care Centre in Gombe State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Immunization is a cost-effective public health intervention for reducing child mortality. However, Nigeria continues to record high rates of vaccine-preventable diseases, particularly in Northern Nigeria. Nursing mothers' knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions significantly influence immunization coverage. Objective: This study assessed the knowledge, attitude, and perception of immunization among nursing mothers attending Pantami Primary Health Care Centre, Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 130 nursing mothers selected through systematic random sampling. Data were collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests were used for analysis at p < 0.05 significance level. Results: The majority (89.2%) had good knowledge, 92.3% had positive attitudes, and 87.7% had positive perceptions towards immunization. Health workers were the predominant information source (42.3%). The most common barriers were lack of information (63.1%), fear of side effects (57.7%), and distance (52.3%). Educational level was significantly associated with knowledge (χ² = 28.642, p = 0.001), and number of children was significantly associated with perception (χ² = 9.876, p = 0.020). Age was not significantly associated with attitude (χ² = 2.654, p = 0.617). Conclusion: While knowledge, attitude, and perception are generally positive, gaps remain. Recommendations include strengthening health education, reducing access barriers, improving service quality, engaging husbands and community structures, and implementing reminder systems.