Exploring Determinants for Vaccine Decision and Media Strategies for Integrated Yellow Fever, Measles And Hpv Vaccination in Nasarawa State.

Abstract

Vaccination is an important tool for preventing infectious diseases, but vaccine hesitancy remains a significant challenge in many parts of the world, including Nasarawa state, Nigeria. Despite the importance of vaccination, many parents and caregivers in Nigeria are reluctant to vaccinate their children, citing concerns about vaccine safety and efficacy. The study primary aim is to investigate the media strategies that influence vaccination decisions among parents and caregivers in Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study critically examines the role of socio-demographic factors, access to vaccination services, social media, opinion leaders, and vaccination knowledge in shaping vaccination decisions. Health Belief Model was used to as a theoretical framework to underpin the intricacies that surround the vaccination campaign. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 300 parents and caregivers in Nasarawa State. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The study found that access to vaccination services, social media, opinion leaders, and vaccination knowledge were significant factors influencing vaccination decisions. It is obvious that the traditional media remains the most reliable in spreading vaccination massages especially in a divergent setting like Nasarawa state where illiteracy is a significant issue. The study highlights the importance of addressing access barriers, promoting vaccination knowledge, and leveraging social media and opinion leaders to promote vaccine uptake in Nasarawa State. The findings have implications for the development of evidence-based interventions to promote vaccination and reduce vaccine hesitancy in Nigeria.