Immunization Coverage Pattern in Nairobi

Abstract

This paper attempted to find out the immunization coverage of various vaccinations, namely: DPT for whooping cough, diphtheria and tetanus, BCG for tuberculosis, measles and polio, in Nairobi. The variables that were considered were mothers’ level of education and age. Maternal education was found to have a strong impact on immunization. The higher the mothers’ education, the more the child was likely to be vaccinated. Mothers’ age is related to vaccination coverage. Younger mothers (20-29) appeared to have their children presented for vaccinations while older mothers (35-44) years had fewer children presented for vaccinations. There were/*/aried results for types of immunizations. BCG was better covered (24.5*), compared to measles (7*). The time factor attributed to the difference. BCG is given at first contact with the child, while measles vaccination is given after 9 months. Many children drop out of the immunization programme before receiving measles vaccination. DPT and polio presented interesting results. The first doses of the vaccines were moderately covered while there was

a drop in the number of children who received the last vaccines. The first dosage of DPT and polio is given at 6 weeks, the second is given at 10 weeks, while the third is given at 14 weeks. Some mothers forget or just drop out of the immunization programme. There is need for an immunization campaign in Nairobi, since the coverage is still low, inspite of the availability of vaccination facilities.