Poliomyelitis has over the years been proven to be one of the most
contagious and dreaded childhood diseases. The effect of this disease
ranges from general health discomfort due to physical deformation of
legs, paralysis and early infant mortality. The adverse effects of Polio
on children propelled intensive campaigns on the acceptance of Polio
vaccine in order to mitigate the hazardous health impact of the Polio
virus on children. This was done by breaking down the campaign channels
into components such as the Volunteer Community Mobilizer Network for
poliovirus intervention. Therefore, the study sets out to assess the
communication approaches of the Volunteer Community Mobilizer Network as
a channel for polio intervention and to strengthen the acceptance of
polio vaccine in the study locations through the deployment of effective
change communication platforms. The objectives of this study are; to
investigate the knowledge and perceptions of polio disease in the study
locations; to explore the factors militating against the acceptance of
polio vaccine in the study locations; identify and analyze the
communication approach of the Volunteer Community Mobilizer Network for
polio intervention in the study locations and devise ways that Polio can
be more effectively communicated for a lasting and sustainable result.
The theoretical framework used for this study is the Health Belief Model
by Becker (1974) from the work of Rosenstock (1966). The theory states
that the perceived level of susceptibility, severity, benefits and
barriers are factors that influence an individual‟s likelihood of
adopting a new health practice. The study employed both quantitative and
qualitative research methods of Questionnaire, Focus Group Discussion
and Key Informant Interview. Findings of this study revealed that
Volunteer Community Mobilizer Network (VCMN) in Sabon Gari LGA utilize
multiple communication platforms such as home visits, compound
discussion, distribution of leaflets and messages via cassette and
phone. The study established that despite the efforts of VCMN and the
viable communication methods they deploy to create awareness on Polio
and the importance of the vaccine, there is still considerable refusal
or non-compliance of Polio vaccine in the communities and the residents
are aware and concerned. It was discovered that the people in the
communities do not accept the vaccine because it is free while they pay
huge sums of money to be treated in hospitals. Interestingly, others
still believe it is an evil attack not a health problem. The study
recommends that VCMN should engage educational institutions, especially
secondary schools, to create health clubs for awareness on health issues
like polio. Also, VCMN should carry out a study and interact with
community people to agree on the time for awareness and vaccination
rounds.