ABSTRACT
This study examined measles management and prevention practices among breastfeeding mothers in Irrua, Edo State, Nigeria. A quantitative survey research design was adopted, and data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered to 306 respondents selected through simple random sampling. The formulated hypotheses were tested using the t-test to examine the relationships between selected factors and measles-related outcomes. The findings revealed significant associations between mothers’ perceptions of the severity of measles and the vaccination status of their children, their knowledge of measles transmission and prevention, and their adoption of preventive practices. Furthermore, socioeconomic factors, particularly income level and access to healthcare services, were found to influence measles prevention and treatment practices among breastfeeding mothers. These findings demonstrate the importance of addressing knowledge deficiencies and improving access to healthcare services to strengthen measles prevention within the community.
The study concludes that several factors influence how breastfeeding mothers manage and prevent measles in Irrua, Edo State. The findings emphasise the need for targeted interventions that will improve childhood vaccination coverage, strengthen maternal knowledge of measles transmission and prevention, and reduce socioeconomic barriers to accessing healthcare services. Consequently, the study recommends the implementation of community-based health education programmes, improvement of healthcare infrastructure, and the introduction of policies that encourage vaccination and promote equitable access to healthcare services. These interventions are essential for reducing the incidence and impact of measles and improving child health outcomes in the study area.
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that continues to constitute a major public health challenge worldwide, particularly among children below five years of age (WHO, 2020). Although a safe and affordable vaccine is available for its prevention, measles remains responsible for a substantial number of deaths annually, with developing countries such as Nigeria experiencing a greater share of the disease burden (WHO, 2020). In Edo State, the occurrence of measles remains a public health concern, especially among vulnerable groups, including children between the ages of zero and five years.
Breastfeeding mothers have an important responsibility in promoting the health and development of their children. Breast milk supplies essential nutrients and antibodies that support the development of the infant's immune system and provide protection against certain infections (Mugada et al., 2017). However, the perceptions of breastfeeding mothers concerning the effects of measles on children in Edo State have not received sufficient research attention. Examining their knowledge, beliefs and experiences can provide useful information about the difficulties they encounter in preventing and managing the disease.
Research examining the knowledge, attitudes and practices of mothers with children below five years of age regarding vaccination has identified possible deficiencies in their understanding of the importance and benefits of immunisation (Wani et al., 2017). Inadequate knowledge and misconceptions about vaccination may contribute to low immunisation uptake, thereby increasing children's vulnerability to measles in communities across Edo State.
Similarly, studies conducted in Saudi Arabia and South India on parents' knowledge, attitudes and practices concerning immunisation have demonstrated the importance of correcting misconceptions and encouraging positive attitudes towards vaccination as a means of improving immunisation coverage (Habib et al., 2018; Sunny et al., 2018). Adopting similar approaches in Edo State may help improve measles vaccination uptake and reduce the impact of the disease on children under five years of age.
Parents' decisions regarding childhood immunisation are also influenced by their perceptions of vaccine effectiveness and safety, including their understanding of the measles vaccine (Trushitkumar et al., 2021). Therefore, examining the concerns, beliefs and opinions of breastfeeding mothers about measles vaccination can help healthcare professionals develop appropriate interventions to overcome barriers and improve vaccine acceptance in Edo State.
Furthermore, research conducted in Pakistan and Ethiopia has highlighted the need to consider cultural beliefs and socioeconomic circumstances when developing immunisation programmes to ensure that such programmes are accepted and effective (Sohail et al., 2021; Birhanu et al., 2022). In the same way, cultural practices, financial limitations and other socioeconomic conditions in Edo State may influence how breastfeeding mothers understand and respond to measles prevention and vaccination.
The availability and accessibility of immunisation services are also important determinants of vaccination uptake and coverage (Alshammari et al., 2018). In Edo State, strengthening healthcare facilities and expanding immunisation outreach services to rural, remote and underserved communities could improve access to measles vaccination for children below five years of age.
In addition, community participation and health education programmes involving breastfeeding mothers and other relevant stakeholders can improve awareness of the importance of measles vaccination and help address existing fears, concerns and misconceptions (Ramadan et al., 2020). Encouraging community members to participate in health-related discussions and decision-making can promote the development of practical and sustainable strategies for improving measles immunisation coverage in Edo State.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The inadequate understanding of how breastfeeding mothers perceive the effects of measles on children in Edo State, Nigeria, represents an important public health issue that requires further investigation. Despite the continuing threat posed by measles, particularly to children below five years of age, limited research has specifically examined the perceptions and experiences of breastfeeding mothers regarding the disease and its effects on their children's health.
Much of the existing research has concentrated on parents' general knowledge, attitudes and practices concerning childhood vaccination. However, relatively little attention has been given to the specific views of breastfeeding mothers regarding measles and its possible consequences for children within the context of Edo State.
Understanding the experiences and opinions of breastfeeding mothers is essential because they play a significant role in childcare and are often directly involved in making decisions about their children's healthcare. Identifying deficiencies in their knowledge, misconceptions and practices relating to measles prevention and vaccination can provide a basis for developing appropriate interventions. Such interventions may help improve immunisation uptake and strengthen the prevention and management of measles among children in Edo State.
Furthermore, cultural practices, socioeconomic circumstances and the availability of healthcare services may create additional difficulties for breastfeeding mothers in preventing and managing measles among their children. However, the extent to which these factors influence maternal perceptions and practices concerning measles in Edo State has not been adequately established.
Consequently, there is a need for a study that specifically investigates breastfeeding mothers' perceptions of the effects of measles on children in Edo State, Nigeria. Addressing this research gap will provide useful information for policymakers, healthcare professionals and public health practitioners in developing appropriate strategies to encourage measles vaccination, overcome barriers to immunisation and reduce the burden of the disease among children below five years of age in the study area.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of this study is to examine breastfeeding mothers' perceptions of the effects of measles on children aged zero to five years in Irrua, Edo State. The specific objectives are to:
1. Assess breastfeeding mothers' perceptions of the effects of measles on children aged zero to five years in Irrua, Edo State.
2. Examine the coping strategies adopted by breastfeeding mothers to manage measles symptoms and complications in their children.
3. Identify the factors that influence measles prevention and treatment practices among breastfeeding mothers in Irrua, Edo State.
1.4 Research Questions
The following research questions were developed to guide the study:
1. What are the perceived effects of measles on children aged zero to five years, according to breastfeeding mothers in Irrua, Edo State?
2. What coping strategies do breastfeeding mothers adopt to manage measles symptoms and complications in their children?
3. Which factors influence measles prevention and treatment practices among breastfeeding mothers in Irrua, Edo State?
1.5 Research Hypotheses
The following null hypotheses were formulated for the study:
1. There is no significant relationship between the perceived severity of measles and the vaccination status of children among breastfeeding mothers in Irrua, Edo State.
2. Breastfeeding mothers' knowledge of measles transmission and prevention has no significant relationship with their adoption of effective preventive measures for their children.
3. Socioeconomic factors, including income level and access to healthcare services, have no significant influence on measles prevention and treatment practices among breastfeeding mothers in Irrua, Edo State.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study is intended to improve understanding of how breastfeeding mothers perceive the effects of measles on children aged zero to five years in Irrua, Edo State, Nigeria. By concentrating on this particular population and geographical area, the research seeks to generate information that may contribute to the development of appropriate public health policies and interventions. Understanding the views and experiences of breastfeeding mothers will provide useful insights into the challenges associated with measles prevention and management and may help reduce the burden of the disease within the community.
The findings of this research may contribute to public health policy development and the improvement of healthcare interventions in several ways. First, understanding how breastfeeding mothers perceive the effects of measles on young children will enable policymakers and healthcare professionals to identify specific concerns, beliefs and misconceptions that may affect vaccination decisions. This knowledge can support the development of targeted health education programmes aimed at encouraging childhood immunisation and improving vaccination uptake among children aged zero to five years. Improved vaccination coverage may subsequently contribute to reducing the occurrence of measles within the community.
Secondly, the findings may assist healthcare providers in offering better guidance and support to mothers and other caregivers responsible for children affected by measles. Such support may include education on recognising early symptoms, understanding possible complications, providing appropriate care and seeking timely medical attention. Equipping mothers with accurate information and appropriate guidance may improve their ability to respond effectively when their children develop symptoms of measles. This can contribute to better health outcomes and help reduce the risk of further transmission.
Furthermore, examining the perceived effects of measles from the perspectives of breastfeeding mothers may reveal weaknesses in existing healthcare services and infrastructure. Identifying communities where vaccination programmes and healthcare services are difficult to access can help policymakers and relevant authorities develop practical interventions to address these challenges. Possible measures may include mobile immunisation services, community-based health education and outreach programmes, as well as improvements in healthcare facilities serving underserved populations.
In general, this study seeks to provide valuable information about breastfeeding mothers' perceptions of the effects of measles on children aged zero to five years in Irrua, Edo State, Nigeria. The findings may support the development of effective public health policies and interventions aimed at improving vaccination uptake, strengthening measles prevention and promoting appropriate disease management practices among caregivers. Through cooperation among researchers, policymakers, healthcare professionals and members of the community, it may be possible to improve child health outcomes and promote a healthier environment for families in Irrua.
1.7 Scope of the Study
This study focuses on breastfeeding mothers residing in Irrua, Edo State, Nigeria, who have children aged zero to five years. Particular attention is given to mothers whose children have previously experienced measles or may be vulnerable to contracting the disease. The research examines mothers' perceptions of the effects of measles on children, the coping strategies they adopt when managing measles symptoms and complications, and the factors that influence their measles prevention and treatment practices. The study is primarily concerned with the subjective experiences, opinions and perspectives of caregivers rather than the clinical diagnosis and management of measles or the direct measurement of vaccination coverage rates.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
Measles: A highly contagious viral infection that commonly presents with symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose and skin rash, and may result in additional health complications.
Breastfeeding Mothers: Women who provide breast milk to their infants or young children through breastfeeding.
Perceived Impact: The opinions, beliefs or personal understanding of caregivers concerning the effects and possible consequences of measles on children.
Coping Strategies: The actions, decisions and behaviours adopted by breastfeeding mothers to manage measles symptoms and possible complications experienced by their children.
Measles Prevention: The measures adopted to minimise the risk of contracting or transmitting measles, including vaccination, appropriate hygiene practices and avoiding contact with infected individuals.
Treatment Practices: The methods, actions or interventions used by breastfeeding mothers and other caregivers to manage measles symptoms and support the recovery of affected children.
Socioeconomic Factors: Social and economic conditions, including income, educational background and access to healthcare services, that may influence individuals' decisions and behaviours concerning measles prevention and treatment.
Irrua, Edo State: The geographical area in Edo State, Nigeria, selected as the location for conducting this research.
This project contains full academic material including literature review, methodology,
data analysis and conclusion.
VERIFIED COMPLETE RESEARCH PROJECT TOPICS AND MATERIALS
