Uptake of Measles Second Dose Vaccine and Its Associated Factors Among Children Age 24-35 Months in Merhabete Woreda, Ethiopia: 2022: A Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Measles infection in children causes a high degree of morbidity and mortality. Vaccination with two doses of measles vaccine is the best strategy to prevent infection and its spread to other children. However, measles containing vaccination coverage in Ethiopia is below the WHO elimination goal. In this study, our aim was to assess uptake of measles second dose and its associated factors among children's age 24-35 months in Merhabete, North Shoa, Ethiopia, 2022.

METHODS

A community-based cross-sectional study design was conducted in Merhabete Woreda from June 1 to 30, 2022. A total of 732 children aged 24-35 months were included using a multistage and systematic random sampling technique. Data were collected using a semi-structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire. Verbal informed consent was taken regarding their willingness to participate in the study from the guardians. The information was kept confidential and not shared with a third party. Data entered into EpiData version 4.6 and exported to SPSS version 25. A logistic regression model was used to identify associated factors. AOR with 95% CI and  < 0.05 were used to declare statistically significant variables.

RESULTS

A total of 732 children with a response rate of 94.6% were included; the median age was 28 months. Uptake of measles vaccine second dose was 63.3% (95% CI 60%-67%). Knowledge of measles second dose schedule (AOR = 2.151, 95% CI 1.053-4.396), birth at a healthcare facility (AOR = 3.502, 95% CI 1.58-7.77), > 4 antenatal care visits (ANC) (AOR = 2.56, 95% CI 1.254-5.225), having immunization card (AOR = 9.958 (4.256-23.298), and mother age 25-34 years (AOR = 2.954, 95% CI 1.298-6.721) were significantly associated with the uptake of measles second dose.

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

The uptake of measles second dose vaccine in Merhabete Woreda was below the WHO measles elimination target of > 95%. Variables such as number of antenatal follow-up visits, institutional delivery, knowing the schedule of measles second dose vaccine, maintaining immunization card records, and maternal age were found to be independent predictors of vaccination. Therefore, Woreda Health Office managers should strengthen periodic monitoring and evaluate the implementation of measles second dose vaccine. Health professionals should also improve mother's awareness on measles second dose vaccine schedule and its importance and retain their immunization chart booklet.