International Journal of Medical Science and Pharmaceutical Research

Introduction: Many nations have accepted and executed mass vaccination since it has been shown to be the most effective measure for containing pandemics of infectious diseases. This study is aimed at uncovering the community-specific perceptions of vaccine-preventable diseases and identifying the prevailing barriers to immunization in the Isoko region of Delta State. 

Methodology: The study design adopted for this study is a cross sectional study. A multistage sampling technique was adopted to ensure a representative selection of participants from Isoko North and South LGAs of Delta State. Data was analyzed using SPSS Version 22. Descriptive statistics (means, frequencies and percentages, as appropriate) were computed for all variables. These data were reviewed to check for outliers, missing data, and “cells” with low frequencies that might hinder stable statistical analysis. 

Results: The demographic distribution revealed that the majority of respondents were between 28 and 37 years old (35.7%). In terms of education, 67.6% had attained either secondary or tertiary education, suggesting a relatively well-educated population. A majority of respondents (57.7%) feel that vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs) frequently occur in their community. The logistic regression model revealed that religious or cultural beliefs, fear of vaccine side effects, and the unavailability of vaccines were statistically significant predictors of perceived barriers to immunization in Isoko LGAs 

Conclusion: High community involvement, a high proportion of women, and a favorable opinion of vaccines are highlighted in the report, but it also emphasizes enduring obstacles including false information, societal influences, and unequal access that prevent complete immunization coverage. 

Immunization, Isoko, Vaccine

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