Cholera preventive practices among caregivers of under-five children in Ibadan North, Nigeria

Abstract Introduction: Cholera is a severe public health challenge in Nigeria, particularly among children under the age of five, who are especially vulnerable due to their undeveloped immune systems. Effective prevention requires caregivers to follow set hygiene, sanitation, and water safety techniques. This study explored cholera prevention practices among caregivers of children under the age of five in Ibadan North, Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional study was done among 311 caregivers selected through a multistage sample technique. Data were gathered using an interviewer-administered questionnaire that assessed socio-demographic variables and cholera prevention techniques. SPSS version 28 was used to conduct descriptive and inferential analysis, such as chi-square and logistic regression. Results: The mean age of respondents was 32.14 ± 6.41 years, and the majority were female (92.9%) and married (87.1%). Respondents' prevention practices varied; while 67.2% kept their household surroundings always clean, only 39.9% purified their water before use. 44.7% of respondents routinely used soap to wash their hands, while 67.8% kept their children away from cholera-affected regions. Socio-demographic factors, including education and occupation, were significantly associated with good preventive practices (p < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis showed that caregivers with tertiary education were significantly more likely to engage in good preventive practices (OR = 214.78, 95% CI: 35.00–1317.94, p< 0.001). Conclusion: Despite increasing awareness of cholera prevention, caregivers continue to fail in implementing important preventative measures. To prevent cholera in Ibadan North, Nigeria, community-based health education must be strengthened, as well as access to safe water and sanitation facilities enhanced.