FACTORS INFLUENCING EPI IN USHONGO LGA OF BENUE STATE, NIGERIA

This study investigates the factors influencing the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) in Ushongo LGA, Benue State, Nigeria. The study aimed to assess awareness among caregivers and community members, evaluate EPI services, accessibility, health factors, and challenges affecting implementation.Findings show that 76.6% of community members are well-informed about EPI, but 64.2% believe services are not available, and 56.4% face transportation challenges. Many respondents (52.8%) find accessing EPI services too costly and 56.3% cite language barriers as an obstacle.Health infrastructure is viewed as supportive (75.4%), and trained healthcare professionals are seen as enhancing service quality (81.7%). However, limited funding (86.4%), community misconceptions (80.2%), geographical barriers (87.3%), and inadequate healthcare worker training (82.8%) are major challenges hindering EPI implementation.The study concludes that multiple challenges impede EPI success in Ushongo LGA, recommending strategies such as increasing vaccination sites, extending operating hours, mobile clinics, and investing in continuous training for healthcare workers to enhance program effectiveness.