Assessing factors associated with full immunization in under one children in Dedza District, Malawi
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Date
2021-06-03
Authors
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Journal ISSN
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Publisher
Kamuzu University of Health Sciences
Abstract
Type of study: This is a community based cross-sectional study which shall employ a quantitative research
approach. The study targeting mothers or caregivers with children aged 12 to 23 months will be
conducted in Dedza.
Problem statement/rationale: In Malawi, 76% of children under two years received all basic vaccinations and 70% received
basic vaccinations by age of 12 months and fully immunized coverage in under one children in
Dedza district is at 49% which is far below the national target of 85%. Studies on the factors
associated with full immunization coverage in under one children have been conducted elsewhere.
However, there is need to conduct this study since the areas where the studies mentioned here
could have different cultural beliefs, setting and socio-economic status. Therefore, this study is
aimed at assessing factors associated with fully immunized under one children in Dedza.
Methodology: Primary data will be collected from mothers or caregivers with children aged 12 to 23 months
using a structured questionnaire, processed and analysed using STATA 14.0. Numbers and
percentages will be used to estimate the proportion for each indicator.
The main outcome variable will be the full immunization (children that received all the basic
vaccines in a correct schedule and within the first year of life) and the independent variables are
the socio demographic factors like age, children birth order, level of education, time taken to reach
the clinic, occupation, tribe and place of delivery, income, knowledge and the vaccination
reminders. Percentage and Means and Logistical Regression for binary outcome (fully
immunized)
will be used. Pearson’s Chi-square test and T-test will be used for categorical and
continuous variables respectively. to assess the relationship between the explanatory variables and
the outcome variable. Logistic regression will be used to establish the effects of a variable on the
outcome and minimizing the effects of potential confounders. Multiple regression analysis will be
used to explain the variations of the many factors with the outcome and determining the
relationship between the independent factors and the outcome variables. Expected Findings
It is expected that Mothers with children 12-23 months will indicate factors that hinder
immunization coverage in the district.
Dissemination
The results will be shared with COMREC for them to have a record on the findings of the proposed
study and to check if ethical and scientific procedures. The findings will also be shared with the
Malawi Medical Journal, Malawi Ministry of Health, through the Director of Health and Social
Services. A presentation will be made to the College of Medicine through the Research
Dissemination Meeting to share the findings.