Publication:

Influence of health promotion activities on immunization uptake among mothers of under-five children in Oron L.G.A, Akwa Ibom state Nigeria

Background Immunization is a cornerstone of global child survival strategies and a central component of the WHO–UNICEF Immunization Agenda 2030. However, immunization uptake remains suboptimal in many low- and middle-income countries due to sociocultural and informational barriers. This study assessed the influence of health promotion activities on childhood immunization uptake among mothers of under-five children in Oron Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.

Methods The study was conducted between January, 2025 to June, 2025. A concurrent mixed-methods design was employed. The quantitative component used a cross-sectional descriptive design involving 384 mothers selected through multistage sampling, with data collected using a semi-structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics. The qualitative component consisted of in-depth interviews with 60 purposively selected participants, and data were analyzed thematically.

Results Social context factors, including cultural norms, belief systems, and the influence of significant others, accounted for 46.6% of the variation in childhood immunization uptake. Health promotion strategies, particularly community engagement forums and digital communication platforms—explained 47.9% of uptake. Overall, health promotion activities demonstrated a statistically significant positive influence on childhood immunization uptake 44.3%, p<0.05. Qualitative findings supported these results, highlighting the roles of socioeconomic conditions, cultural beliefs, and community influence in maternal immunization decision-making.

Conclusions Childhood immunization uptake in Oron Local Government Area is strongly influenced by health promotion activities and sociocultural context. Context-specific and culturally responsive health promotion interventions, with emphasis on community engagement and trust-building, are essential for improving immunization coverage. Integrating such strategies into national and subnational immunization policies may help reduce vaccine hesitancy and promote equitable access.