Diptheria vaccine awareness survey among the general populace of Kaduna State

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the study is to find the knowledge of Kaduna state populace on diphtheria vaccine which is the most effective way of tackling the disease as the Diphtheria antitoxin is not readily available for use in the country.

Method: A survey conducted with a designed questionnaire at a confidence level of 95%, confidence interval of 12.5 showed Kaduna State populace’s responses on diphtheria, its vaccine and booster doses, the questionnaire was self administered and responses were collated using simple descriptive statistics.

Results: A total number of 64 people responded; majority (37 of 64) were from the child bearing age fifty six, 56(88%), fifty nine, 59 (92%) were vaccinated against diphtheria but only eighteen, 18 (28%) knew about its booster doses. Twenty eight, 28 (45%) took their children for vaccine but only fourteen, 14 (11%) ever took them to receive the booster dose from among the respondents.

Conclusion: Kaduna state residents have generally inconsequential awareness on diphtheria, its prevention and management.

Key words: Diphtheria toxin; Diphtheria toxoid; Vaccine; Knowledge; Populace