Vaccine Hesitancy Amidst the Re-emergence of Diphtheria: Evidence from Plateau State, Nigeria
The rise in vaccine-preventable diphtheria diseases underscores the issue of vaccine hesitancy in Nigeria that undermines herd immunity and results in the re-emergence of diphtheria outbreaks. Knowledge and awareness of diphtheria resurgence among people of Plateau State, as well as signs and symptoms, is a challenge. This research examines the diphtheria vaccine hesitancy among individuals in Plateau State, Nigeria. The study employed a cross-sectional approach, utilizing questionnaires and interviews for data collection. A total sample size of 389 participants was involved through using Cochran’s William formula of 1963, and areas selected were LGAs that had recorded diphtheria infection previously (Wase, Jos-North, Kenam, Bokkos, Pankshin, Barkin-Ladi, Langtang, and Mikang LGAs). The study considered the inclusion of male and female, both infected victims and non-infected victims, where it excluded laboratory tests, children, and disabled people from the selected environment. The ethical considerations included contacting the Plateau State Ministry of Health and the Plateau State Hospital Management Board, as well as maintaining confidentiality. The study analyzed the data using simple statistics, including frequency/percentage, mean, and standard deviation, as well as factor analysis to determine the primary factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy in Plateau State. The findings reveal low knowledge and a lack of awareness about the re-emergence of the disease, as well as a limited understanding of its signs and symptoms. Others, unsure of the vaccine, lack confidence among health personnel due to fears of infertility and negative beliefs about vaccine safety. Poor awareness, self-negative assumptions, and parental decision-making regarding household vaccination are major factors identified. Thus, recommendations were made appropriately to encourage herd immunity.