Study Finds Low Awareness of Childhood Vaccines

A new study conducted in Kenya has revealed concerning gaps in caregiver knowledge about routine childhood immunizations. Researchers carried out in-depth interviews with caregivers of children aged 0–23 months in counties including Kilifi, Turkana, Nairobi, and Kitui, and found that insufficient knowledge about vaccines was a major driver of low vaccine uptake.
The study identified several contributing factors to this lack of awareness, including distance to health facilities, poverty, and infrequent community outreach.In addition, caregivers reported that industrial action by healthcare workers disrupted access, while rumors and religious beliefs also undermined trust in immunization. In low-income urban communities in Nairobi, another qualitative study found that caregivers received vaccination messages mainly via health workers, community health volunteers, and mass media, but many felt the information was too superficial.Participants expressed a need for more in-depth, trustworthy communication around vaccine benefits, side effects, and schedules.Public health experts say these findings highlight the urgent need for tailored education campaigns. They recommend stronger community engagement, more frequent and culturally appropriate messaging, and efforts to build trust — particularly in underserved areas — to improve vaccine awareness and uptake.