Mothers’ Knowledge and Practice of Immunisation Schedules at Primary Health Care Centre, Katsina State

Background: Full immunisation coverage in Nigerian children remains below the 80% national target, with maternal knowledge and practice of immunisation schedules being a key determinant of vaccine uptake. Aim: This study assessed mothers' knowledge and practice of childhood immunisation schedules at a primary health care centre in Katsina State, North West Nigeria. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey recruited 125 mothers of children aged 12 to 23 months through systematic random sampling. A structured interviewer-administered questionnaire was used. Descriptive statistics and chi-square were applied in SPSS version 25. Results: Knowledge of the recommended immunisation schedule was adequate in 61% of respondents. Full immunisation was recorded in only 54% of children. Reasons for missed vaccines included lack of awareness of immunisation dates, long distances to facilities, and fear of adverse reactions. Maternal education was the strongest predictor of full immunisation. Conclusion: Significant coverage gaps persist despite reasonable maternal knowledge. The study recommends community outreach, health worker-initiated reminders, and integrated community-based immunisation drives led by nurses to improve vaccine uptake in North West Nigeria. Keywords: immunisation, maternal knowledge, childhood vaccines, Katsina, primary health care.