THE INFLUENCE OF PREFERENCE FOR HERBAL MEDICINE AND SOCIAL NORMS ON THE SPREAD OF COMMUNICABLE DISEASES AMONG UNDER-FIVE CHILDREN IN NASARAWA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Despite ongoing public health interventions, the burden of preventable communicable diseases among under-five children in Nasarawa State, Nigeria remains high. This situation highlights the critical role of non-biomedical factors in disease transmission. This study examined the influence of preference for herbal medicine and social norms on the spread of communicable diseases among under-five children in Nasarawa State. Anchored on Cultural Ecological Theory, the study adopted a mixed-methods design. Quantitative data were collected through a cross-sectional survey of 463 caregivers, while qualitative data were obtained via Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) with parents, healthcare providers, and community leaders across five Local Government Areas. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics such as tables and percentages and multiple regression analysis, while qualitative data were subjected to thematic analysis using Braun and Clarke’s approach. The study concludes that cultural and social factors significantly influence the spread of communicable diseases among under-five children in Nasarawa State. Preference for herbal treatment and certain social norms contribute to delayed healthcare seeking and increased disease risk, while positive community practices support disease prevention. The study recommends strengthening culturally sensitive health education, improving collaboration between traditional and formal healthcare providers, addressing gender-related barriers, and promoting positive community practices such as vaccination and hygiene to reduce communicable diseases among under-five children in Nasarawa State.