Determinants of Use of Health Care Services and Immunization Uptake Among nomadic Populations of Northern Cameroon in a Humanitarian Context

Background/Objectives: Nomadic populations in sub-Saharan Africa face significant barriers to healthcare access due to their mobility, isolation, and socio-cultural practices. In Cameroon, limited data exist on the health-seeking behaviour and immunisation uptake among nomads. This study aimed to explore the determinants influencing the use of healthcare services and vaccination among nomadic communities to inform targeted, culturally adapted interventions. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted in March 2022 across 141 nomadic camps in ten health districts spanning the Adamawa, North, and Far North regions of Cameroon. A total of 826 nomadic adults aged 18 and older participated. Trained local interviewers collected data via Kobo Toolbox in local languages, focusing on sociodemographic characteristics, vaccination knowledge, health-seeking practices, and access-related challenges. Descriptive statistics were analysed using SPSS version 26.0. Results: Among participants, 61.7% were male and 49.4% aged 25–45 years. While 73.5% believed in vaccine efficacy, 21.5% had never heard of vaccination, and 51.3% could not name a vaccine-preventable disease. Despite 71.2% reporting access to immunisation services, barriers included lack of information (6.1%), long distance (5.9%), and staff attitudes (2.2%). Preference for traditional medicine (68.2%) and cost-related obstacles also limited broader healthcare use. Only 47.4% considered health services affordable, and 34.3% doubted the capacity of health facilities to cure all illnesses. Conclusions: Nomadic populations in Cameroon face multifaceted challenges to healthcare and immunisation uptake, shaped by cultural, structural, and informational factors. Addressing these barriers through mobile services, community engagement, and tailored education strategies is essential for improving health equity among hard-to-reach populations.ent, and tailored education strategies is essential for improving health equity among hard-to-reach populations.