AWARENESS, ACCEPTANCE AND AND UPTAKE OF HEPATITIS B VACCINE AMONG WOMEN OF REPRODUCTIVE AGE IN ILARA COMMUNITY, ONDO STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a major public health burden in sub-Saharan Africa, with Nigeria reporting an estimated 8–12% chronic infection prevalence. Despite an efficacious vaccine, uptake among women of reproductive age in community settings remains suboptimal due to knowledge gaps, financial barriers, and sociocultural factors. This study assessed HBV vaccine awareness; acceptance and uptake among women aged 15–49 years in Ilara Community, Ondo State, Nigeria, and identified determinants of uptake. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed. Using multi-stage sampling, 384 women were recruited across Ilara Community. A structured Likert-scale questionnaire was administered and data analysed using SPSS version 25 with descriptive statistics. Respondents were predominantly aged 18–25 years (34.9%), Yoruba (74.2%), Christian (59.4%), and single (55.7%). Knowledge scores were moderate (mean: 3.47–3.57). Perceptions were largely positive, with strong belief in vaccine effectiveness (M = 4.14) and importance for women of childbearing age (M = 4.18). Despite this, uptake was critically low, with over 80% disagreeing with statements reflecting vaccination behaviour (mean scores: 3.89–4.23). Principal barriers included healthcare cost (M = 3.45), limited accessibility (M = 3.56), fear of side effects (M = 3.54), cultural and religious beliefs (M = 3.41), and inadequate provider recommendations (M = 3.40). Although women in Ilara Community demonstrate moderate knowledge and positive perceptions of the HBV vaccine, actual uptake remains critically low. The gap between attitudes and behaviour underscores the need for multi-level interventions targeting structural, economic, and sociocultural barriers. Enhanced health education, subsidised vaccine access, and provider-initiated counselling are urgently recommended.