Thesis:

Human Papiloma virus vaccination hesitancy among parents with 10-14 years adolescent girls in Athi-river sub-county Machakos county

The prevention of cervical cancer is achievable through the vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV). Nevertheless, parents may express reservations regarding the vaccination of their daughters. Therefore, it is essential to identify the factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy among adolescent females aged 10 to 14 years. The study was guided by the following objectives establishment of the knowledge and attitude of parents with female children aged 10-14 years about HPV vaccination, to examine any concerns or reservations parents may have about HPV vaccination for their 10-14year old female children, to examine the elements that affect the choices made by parents regarding the decision to forgo vaccinations for their children 10–14year-old female children against HPV and finally to establish the perceptions of parents about the administration of the HPV vaccine and the associated barriers. This study integrates two theoretical approaches, the Intervention Program Theory and the Health Belief Model (HBM). This research employed a descriptive cross-sectional study design, conducting in-depth interviews with parents of eligible children to gain a comprehensive understanding of their views on the vaccine within the community living in Athi River Sub-County. The researcher used cluster sampling method to select wards. Single stage cluster selection was an optimal approach to guarantee the absence of bias in the selection of respondents. The study focused on identifying factors that influence parents' decisions not vaccinate their children, as well as any concerns or reservations they may have. Additionally, the study examined barriers that parents encountered while trying to get their children vaccinated against HPV. Concern about potential side effects of the emergence of the HPV vaccine has become a crucial element affecting parents' choices regarding the vaccination of their children 10–14-year-old daughters, with 48.37% of respondents considering it "very influential." Out of 74 respondents, this concern resonated strongly, a finding supported by a statistically significant p-value of 5.772. Similarly, the perceived effectiveness of HPV vaccination was deemed "very influential" by 37.91% of respondents, with 58 individuals concurring, and a statistically significant p-value of 9.468. There are apprehensions regarding the possible adverse effects associated with the vaccine effectiveness, necessity, and cost emerged as significant elements affecting parents' choices to refrain from vaccinating their daughters against HPV. Safety apprehensions, including worries about vaccine ingredients and perceived risks of adverse reactions, were highlighted as major factors influencing parental reluctance towards vaccinations. Misinformation and misconceptions about HPV transmission, vaccine efficacy, and potential harms also played a pivotal role in shaping parental decisions. There is need for efforts to combat societal stigmas and misconceptions surrounding HPV and its vaccine must be prioritized. Targeted communication strategies should be employed to dispel myths, reduce stigma, and promote accurate information about HPV transmission, vaccine safety, and efficacy among parents and communities.