EFFECT OF IMMUNIZATION ON THE PREVENTION OF EARLY CHILDHOOD DISEASE BETWEEN THE 1.GES OF 0-6 YEARS IN OFFA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, KWARA STATE
Abstract
*Abstract*
*Background*: Vaccine-preventable diseases remain a major cause of morbidity and mortality among children under six years in Nigeria despite the Expanded Programme on Immunization. In Offa Local Government Area of Kwara State, gaps in immunization coverage and recurring outbreaks of measles and pneumonia raise concerns about the effectiveness of current immunization efforts.
*Objective*: This study assessed the effect of immunization on the prevention of early childhood diseases among children aged 0-6 years in Offa Local Government Area, Kwara State.
*Methods*: A descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted. Multi-stage sampling was used to select 384 mothers/caregivers of children aged 0-6 years across selected wards in Offa LGA. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and review of immunization cards and hospital records. Information on immunization status, history of vaccine-preventable diseases, and socio-demographic factors was obtained. Data were analyzed with SPSS version 25 using descriptive statistics and Chi-square test at $P < 0.05$ significance level.
*Results*: The overall full immunization coverage was 71.4%. Measles, pneumonia, and diarrheal diseases were significantly less common among fully immunized children compared to partially or non-immunized children ( $P = 0.001$). The prevalence of measles was 6.2% among fully immunized children versus 34.8% among non-immunized children. Mothers’ educational level and awareness of immunization schedules were significantly associated with children’s immunization status ( $P < 0.05$).
*Conclusion*: Immunization has a significant protective effect against early childhood diseases in Offa LGA. However, incomplete immunization coverage still exposes a portion of children to vaccine-preventable illnesses. Strengthening routine immunization services, improving maternal education, and intensifying community sensitization are recommended to reduce the burden of childhood diseases in the area.
*Keywords*: Immunization, childhood diseases, disease prevention, vaccines, Offa LGA, Kwara State
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