Knowledge of Childhood Immunisation Schedule Among Mothers Attending a Health Facility in Rivers State

Background: Immunisation is one of the most cost-effective public health interventions for reducing childhood mortality; however, incomplete vaccination schedules remain a challenge in the South South geopolitical zone of Nigeria. This study evaluates the knowledge of childhood immunisation schedules among mothers attending a primary health facility in Rivers State. Methods: A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted using a structured questionnaire administered to 270 mothers attending child welfare clinics. Systematic random sampling was used. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 26 with chi-square tests applied to assess associations. Results: Knowledge of the National Programme on Immunisation schedule was moderate. Awareness of specific vaccines such as the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine was notably low. Maternal education level and occupation were significantly associated with knowledge scores. Vaccine hesitancy was reported among a minority of respondents. Conclusion: Gaps in maternal knowledge of immunisation schedules in Rivers State necessitate strengthened health education at all healthcare contact points. Family medicine practitioners should routinely use clinic visits as opportunities to educate caregivers on the importance of complete and timely childhood vaccination. Keywords: immunisation, childhood vaccines, mothers, Rivers State, knowledge