Pneumococcal Vaccination Coverage in Rural Nigeria: An Analysis of Immunization Programme Performance,

Pneumococcal disease is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in rural Nigeria, particularly among children under five years old. The study employed a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative data from routine immunization records with qualitative insights through interviews with health workers and community leaders in selected rural communities. Pneumococcal vaccination coverage varied significantly across the regions studied, with an average of 52% among children aged under two years. Factors influencing low uptake included limited access to healthcare facilities and cultural beliefs about vaccine efficacy. Despite efforts, substantial gaps in pneumococcal vaccination coverage persist in rural North-Western Nigeria, necessitating targeted interventions to improve immunization rates. Increased investment in community health education programmes and improved infrastructure to enhance access to healthcare facilities are recommended to boost vaccine uptake.