Level and Predictors of Knowledge and Willingness to Receive Tetanus Vaccination among Rural Female Secondary School Students in a Suburban North-Central Nigeria

Abstract Objective This study assessed the level and predictors of knowledge of and willingness to receive tetanus vaccination among rural female secondary school students in suburban North Central Nigeria. Methods This study employed a cross-sectional design, and data were collected through a semistructured, self-administered questionnaire. Factors associated with knowledge and willingness to receive or boost vaccination were determined by chi-square and binary logistic regression, respectively. Predictors of knowledge and willingness to receive or boost vaccination were determined via multivariable logistic regression. Results Only 30.6% demonstrated good knowledge of tetanus infection and prevention. Only 21.1% have received adequate doses of tetanus toxoid, with 79.6% willing to receive or boost vaccination soon. Prevention of tetanus is the most common reason for receiving vaccination, whereas cost and ignorance are the most common reasons for not receiving tetanus toxoid vaccination. A significant predictor of good knowledge was being in senior classes (OR: 4.68 [95% CI: 1.88, 11.60]; p = 0.000). A significant predictor of willingness to receive or boost vaccination (Model I) includes living at least 30 minutes away from the nearest health facility (OR: 2.98 [95% CI: 1.06, 8.40]; p = 0.038) and the maternal secondary level of education (OR: 0.19 [95% CI: 0.04, 0.97]; p = 0.046). Cost is not a predictor of willingness to receive or boost vaccination (Model II). Conclusion Although the majority of respondents reside close to health facilities, a majority still have poor knowledge and uptake but are willing to vaccinate against tetanus infection. More school-based outreach campaigns should be implemented by health facilities and local government health authorities to increase the demand for health activities, such as vaccination, among adolescents. The prevention of disease should be incorporated into early childhood curricula to aid in the promotion of healthful and healthy behavioral practices as children grow into adulthood.