Factors associated with the uptake of the measles immunization program in Luderitz District, Namibia

Abstract

Measles immunization coverage in Namibia has not yet reached the WHO target of 90% in all provinces and districts, particularly in Luderitz district. The study aimed to determine the factors associated with the uptake of measles immunization among children in Luderitz district. A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 parents/caregivers and their children who visited Luderitz clinic during July 2019 to August 2019. A developed questionnaire collected data on the several factors including child-related ,health service related and the perception of parents/caregivers. Data was analysed using STATA 14. Measles immunization uptake was 61% and significantly associated with child’s age (p=0.001) and gender (p=0.003), parents/caregivers age (p≤0.0001), gender (p=0.021), marital status (p≤0.0001) and employment status (p=0.009). Barriers to measles immunization were mainly inconvenient vaccination time (44%) and forgetfulness (25%) while suggested cues to action, were sending the reminders (30%), providing immunization the whole day (40%) and health education and promotion.