Tagbo Beckie Nnenna, Ughasoro Maduka D, Omotowo Ishola Babatunde, Eneh Chizoma Ihuarula and Uwaezuoke Ndubuisi Anyele
Rotavirus is the commonest cause of severe diarrheal disease worldwide, with prevalence as high as 25% in Nigeria. Severe rotavirus disease is vaccine preventable, with potential to prevent 576 deaths per day in Africa, yet 85% of deaths occur in Africa and South-East Asia. Nigeria is yet to adopt the 2009 WHO recommendation of global inclusion of rotavirus vaccine into the national immunization programme. With pre-existing barriers to immunizing Nigerian children; it is relevant to explore the health-care providers knowledge of rotavirus disease and acceptance of the vaccines pre-introduction. Methods: We explored the knowledge, beliefs and attitudes of 91 health-care providers towards rotavirus disease and vaccines using questionnaire based in-depth interviews. Results: Most participants were aware of rotavirus disease, especially as a high priority child health issue. Majority knew vaccination was the most effective preventive method; a fifth thought it was good hygiene and treatment with oral rehydration therapy. 53.9% were conversant with current rotavirus vaccines, but mainly concerned about their newness, yet 70.3% would vaccinate their children. Majority would recommend vaccination and this likelihood would increase if the vaccine was incorporated into the national immunization programme and recommended by professional organizations. However, only 27.5% considered rotavirus disease to be a very serious disease and only 63.7% knew that immunization is the most effective method of prevention. Sustained awareness to enhance uptake was the most frequently expressed need. Conclusion: This study suggests that health-care providers are likely to adopt rotavirus vaccines, especially if they are properly informed. Increasing awareness and involving pediatricians would be essential to a successful vaccination programme. These data, will guide pre-introduction advocacy efforts and help develop strategies to broaden vaccine coverage.