Myths and misconceptions as barriers to uptake of immunization services in Calabar, Cross River State of Nigeria

Abstract

Context: Nigeria is presently one of only three countries in the world that are polio endemic.   The immunization program in Nigeria has been marred by several factors including myths and misconceptions.  
Objective: The objective of this study was to identify myths and misconceptions that affect utilization of childhood immunization services in Calabar, Nigeria.
Materials and Methods: Focus group discussion sessions were held among caregivers in Calabar, Nigeria. Each group consisted of 12 women of reproductive age. Data obtained from each session were transcribed and analyzed using the content analysis approach.
Results: Participants had poor knowledge of vaccine preventable diseases (VPDs). Some mentioned non-VPDs as if they were VPDs. Some believed that “so called” VPDs are caused by mermaid spirits, witches and wizards. The solution to VPDs proffered by participants was sacrificing in the river by midnight. Some caregivers felt that multiple doses of vaccines could harm the children. With regard to polio, one caregiver said that “Polio is due to mammy water (water mermaid). The solution is not immunization. The solution is to sacrifice to the mermaid by 12 midnight in any river close to where the child was born, on the night of the child's birth. Once this is done, the child can never never have polio.”
Conclusion: Myths and misconceptions regarding immunization are rife in most Nigerian communities. There is need to debunk them through health education in order to ensure success of the country's immunization program.