Economic factors associated with childhood immunization coverage among children under five years at Luwero General Hospital in Luweero district. A cross-sectional study.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51168/tj443d44Keywords:
childhood immunization, immunization status, immunization schedulesAbstract
Background:
The study aimed to determine the economic factors associated with childhood immunization coverage among children under five years at Luwero General Hospital in Luweero district.
Methodology:
A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the outpatient department of Luweero General Hospital, Uganda, among mothers and caregivers of children under five years. A sample of 96 respondents was determined using the Kish and Leslie formula and selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires with both open and closed-ended questions, administered with translation support where necessary. Data were analyzed manually using tally sheets and summarized using frequencies and percentages. Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained, and data quality was ensured through pre-testing and supervision.
Results:
Most respondents were aged 25–34 years and 35–40 years (38; 39.6% each), while 20 (20.8%) were aged 15–24 years. The majority vaccinated their children before one year of age (85; 88.5%), whereas 11 (11.5%) vaccinated after one year. Regarding education, most respondents had primary education (34; 35.4%), followed by secondary education (28; 29.2%), no formal education (18; 18.8%), and tertiary education (16; 16.7%). Most respondents were Christians (66; 68.8%). More than half resided in rural areas (56; 58.3%), while 40 (41.7%) lived in urban areas. The majority were married (80; 83.3%), and farmers were the most common occupation (25; 26.0%). Regarding immunization status, 50 children (52.1%) were partially immunized, 30 (31.3%) were fully immunized, and 16 (16.6%) were not immunized. More than half (55; 57.3%) believed employment facilitated immunization, and 40 (41.7%) reported household income positively influenced completion of immunization schedules.
Conclusion:
Employment status, household income, poverty, and transport costs influenced caregivers’ ability to complete childhood immunization schedules.
Recommendation:
The Government of Uganda should strengthen immunization awareness through media campaigns and community health education.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Sulaidah Najjuma, Ronald Mbidde, Francisco Ssemuwemba, Hasifa Nansereko, Jane Frank Nalubega, Immaculate Prosperia Naggulu (Author)
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