Abstract:
Introduction
High immunization coverage is essential in the control, elimination and eradication of
vaccine preventable diseases. Though, immunization coverage rates have improved in
recent times, there are pockets of poorly covered areas that could result in the build-up
of susceptible children and possibly lead to disease outbreaks.
Objectives
The aim of the study was to assess factors associated with vaccination status of children
in Ga South Municipality.
Methods
The study was an analytical cross-sectional survey among a sample of children aged
between 12 - 23 months old in Ga South Municipality of Greater Accra Region.
Vaccination card and maternal recall were used to assess vaccination status. Structured
questionnaire was used to collect data on child and maternal characteristics. Logistic
regression model was used to assess the association between vaccination status and the
explanatory variables.
Results
Two hundred and ten (210) mothers of children aged between 12 - 23 months old were
interviewed from 30 clusters in Ga South Municipality. The vaccination records of all
210 children were also assessed. The coverage for fully vaccinated children by card and
history was 88.6% (Card=90%, history=60%). One (0.5%) child did not received any
vaccine at all. Incomplete vaccination was significantly associated with level of
education of mother (AOR 5.24, 95% CI: 1.30; 2l.08), suitability of date for child
welfare clinic (AOR 8.54, 95% CI: 1.67; 43.57), availability of vaccination card (AOR
22.69, 95% CI: 4.13; 124.76, p<O.OOOl), parity of mother (AOR 1.50, 95% CI: 1.03;
2.18) and area of residence (AOR 8.41, 95% CI: 2.12; 33.32).
Conclusion
The vaccination coverage for children aged 12 - 23 months in Ga South Municipal is
high. It however fell short of the recommended target of 90%. Level of education,
parity, area of residence, availability of vaccination card and suitability of date for child
welfare clinic were significantly associated with vaccination status.
Recommendation
The municipality should intensity information, education and communication activities
to heighten awareness on routine immunization, encourage mothers to keep the
vaccination cards of their children safely and also open more outreach points especially
in rural areas in order to bring immunization services closer to people in these areas.