KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE REGARDING IMMUNIZATION OF UNDER-FIVE CHILDREN AMONG MOTHERS ATTENDING ANTENATAL CLINIC (ANC) AT NKATA IBEKU UMUAHIA, ABIA STATE

Abstract This study examines the knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding the immunization of under-five children among mothers attending the antenatal clinic (ANC) at Nkata Ibeku, Umuahia, Abia State. Immunization is essential for preventing childhood diseases and reducing mortality rates. A cross-sectional descriptive research design survey was adopted, with a sample of 180 mothers attending the clinic from (January 2024 to March 2024) using a simple random sampling technique. The study aims to assess mothers' awareness, attitudes, and adherence to immunization schedules. Findings revealed that 98.9% of mothers had heard about immunization, primarily from health workers, antenatal clinics, and doctors (48.3%, 36.1%, and 26.7%, respectively). While attitudes towards immunization were positive, with mothers recognizing its importance for their children's health, there were gaps in specific knowledge about vaccines and diseases. Barriers to full adherence included misinformation, cultural beliefs, and limited access to healthcare facilities. To enhance immunization practices, the study recommends increasing educational materials on social media and organizing radio and television programs to raise awareness. The government should collaborate with healthcare workers to implement supplementary vaccination programs and campaigns and train more personnel to reach rural areas. Establishing mobile healthcare services for immunization reminders and conducting community-level talks could further improve coverage and reduce vaccine resistance. Key words: attitude, immunization, knowledge, antenatal