The coverage of the second dose of the measles-containing vaccine: A cross-sectional survey in a rural health district of Cameroon

Abstract

Measles remains a significant public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa, including Cameroon, where vaccination coverage (77%) falls below the World Health Organization target of 95%. This study assessed the coverage of the second dose of measles-containing vaccine (MCV2) and identified factors influencing vaccination uptake in Ngog-Mapubi Health District (HD), Cameroon. A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted in this rural HD in March 2024, involving 140 parents or guardians of children aged 15-23 months. Data were collected using a pre-tested questionnaire, covering sociodemographic characteristics, vaccination status, and barriers to uptake. Determinants of MCV2 vaccination were identified through logistic regression. Data were analyzed using R statistics version 4.4.2. p<0.05 was considered statistically significant. The study revealed a MCV2 vaccination coverage of 46.4% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 38.0-55.0). Among unvaccinated children, 85.3% (95% CI: 75.3-92.4) of caregivers expressed willingness to vaccinate, indicating high acceptance but persistent barriers. Distance to health facilities (43%), lack of information about vaccine availability (37%), and missed opportunities during health visits (25%) were the most cited obstacles. Awareness of MCV2 was high (89%), but knowledge gaps persisted, with 61% of respondents demonstrating poor understanding of vaccination schedules. Multivariate analysis identified the absence of advanced vaccination strategies (e.g., outreach programs) as the strongest predictor of non-vaccination (adjusted odds ratio = 7.15; 95% CI: 3.19-17.2; p<0.001). Despite a high MCV2 acceptance rate, low MCV2 coverage in this rural district underscores the need for improved access through advanced vaccination strategies and targeted community education. Addressing structural and informational barriers is essential to achieving equitable immunization coverage.

Keywords

Measles-containing vaccine / Second dose of measles-containing vaccine / Vaccination coverage / Rural health / Cameroon / Immunization barriers / Advanced strategy

Funding

None.

Conflict of interest

The authors declare that they have no competing interests.

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