Abstract:

Background: underutilization of vaccines still remain a challenge in many regions across the world as it has led to a high burden of vaccine preventable diseases in children. Despite availability of vaccines in many countries, practices and knowledge which may significantly influence implementation of vaccination programs have not been with good vaccination practice among mothers aged 1-5 years at Makonoro Clinic in Mwanza city.

Methodology: A cross sectional study was conducted at Makongoro clinic in Mwanza city among mothers with children under five years old between June and July 2020. Data was collected using structured questionnaires. Data was the analyzed using SPSS software version 20.

Results: the mean age of the respondents was 25.54 ±5.75 years. Most of them 223(85.8%) were married and had at least primary education 141(54.2%). Most of them 229(88.1%) had good knowledge of national immunization schedule and also most of them 234(90%) had good vaccination practices. Among that factors studied in this population low education level (p=0.008) was significantly associated with good immunization practice.

Conclusion: though the practices of mothers were good but can further be improved by imparting awareness. The insufficient knowledge which have being shown by few respondents requires sincere efforts on the part of the health professionals and the policy makers to plan and execute information, education and communication initiatives.