Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Toward Childhood Vaccination Among Caregivers in Buea Urban Setting: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Objectives: Understanding caregivers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) toward childhood vaccination is crucial for improving immunization coverage and addressing vaccine hesitancy. This study utilized the World Health Organization Behavioral and Social Drivers (WHO BeSD) framework to assess KAP regarding childhood vaccination among caregivers in Buea urban setting. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 439 caregivers with children aged 0-59 months in Buea urban area. We collected data using a structured questionnaire based on the WHO BeSD tool. We assessed KAP domains using binary categorization: good knowledge (≥50% positive responses to knowledge indicators), positive attitude (≥75% positive responses to attitude indicators), and good practice (≥50% positive responses to practice indicators). Chi-square tests were performed to identify factors associated with each KAP domain. Results: Among 439 participants, 79.0% demonstrated good knowledge, 82.5% had positive attitudes, and 85.0% showed good vaccination practices. Knowledge was significantly associated with age group (p=0.039), sex (p=0.027), marital status (p<0.001), occupation (p=0.013), primary caregiver role (p<0.001), and housing status (p=0.002). Positive attitudes were associated with age group (p=0.002), marital status (p=0.019), health insurance (p=0.039), primary caregiver role (p=0.042), and number of children (p=0.003). Good practices were linked to marital status (p<0.001), education level (p=0.007), and health insurance (p=0.011). Conclusion: While most caregivers demonstrated favorable KAP toward vaccination, targeted interventions are needed for specific demographic groups, particularly younger caregivers, males, and those with non-primary caregiver roles to further improve vaccination outcomes.