Factors associated with the uptake of the measles immunization program in Luderitz District, Namibia

Factors associated with the uptake of the measles immunization program in Luderitz District, Namibia Nyamupfukudza, Nyarai Measles immunization coverage in Namibia has not yet reached the WHO target of 90% in all provinces and districts, particularly in Luderitz district. The study aimed to determine the factors associated with the uptake of measles immunization among children in Luderitz district. A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 parents/caregivers and their children who visited Luderitz clinic during July 2019 to August 2019. A developed questionnaire collected data on the several factors including child-related ,health service related and the perception of parents/caregivers. Data was analysed using STATA 14. Measles immunization uptake was 61% and significantly associated with child’s age (p=0.001) and gender (p=0.003), parents/caregivers age (p≤0.0001), gender (p=0.021), marital status (p≤0.0001) and employment status (p=0.009). Barriers to measles immunization were mainly inconvenient vaccination time (44%) and forgetfulness (25%) while suggested cues to action, were sending the reminders (30%), providing immunization the whole day (40%) and health education and promotion.