An in-depth study of the knowledge, attitude, belief, and practice of the people toward neonatal tetanus was carried out through focus group discussion in two villages (Awi and Ayaebam) in Akamkpa Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria. Neonatal tetanus was a disease entity called “Odon” by the four ethnic groups in the areas of study. Aetiologically it was believed to be caused by the “Odon” spirit. This concept affected attitudes toward preventive measures and cord care practices.
References
1.
UNICEF, The State of the World's Children, Oxford University Press, New York, p. 14, 1991.
2.
EkanemE. E.AsindiA. A.AntiaobongO. E., Factors Influencing Tetanus Toxoid Immunisation among Pregnant Women in Cross River State, Nigeria, Nigerian Medical Practitioner, 27: 1–2, p. 4, 1994.
3.
WhitmanC.BelghandiL.GasseF.TorelC.MatteiV.ZoffmanH., Progress towards the Global Elimination of Neonatal Tetanus, World Health Stat-Q, 45: 2–3, pp. 248–256, 1992.
4.
AntiaobongO. E.YoungM. U.EffiongC. E., Neonatal Tetanus: Prevalence before and Subsequent to Implementation of EPI, Annals of Tropical Paediatrics, 13, pp. 7–12, 1993.
