Browsing by Author "Kaluwa, Beatrice Annala"

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    Factors Contributing to Low Immunization Coverage in Children in Ofesi Health Centre Catchment Area, Kasungu District
    (Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, 2008-11-30) Kaluwa, Beatrice Annala
    This descriptive quantitative study was conducted in Ofesi Health Centre catchment area in Kasungu District. The purpose of the study was to explore factors that contribute to low immunization coverage in Ofesi catchment area. A Health Belief Model has been used as a conceptual framework in the study which explains the behavior and actions taken by people to prevent illness. A convenient sample of 30 parents who reported at Ofesi Health Centre and some of its outreach clinics with children for immunization were enrolled in the study after signing or thumb printing on a consent form. Data has been analyzed using descriptive statistics and has been presented in form of tables, graphs and charts. Key findings of the study are lack of male involvement in the services, low educational level of the people leading to inadequate knowledge on immunization issues and seeking of permission by women from their husbands or relatives before taking their children for immunization. Therefore, health workers should conduct intensive health education talks on immunization to enhance peoples understanding on immunization issues which can increase immunization coverage. Males should be sensitized to take part in the services as they are considered as decision makers in the families. Women should be empowered in decision making skills for them to be able to make decisions without waiting for somebody to make decisions for them.