Factors associated with immunization coverage among children age 12-23 months: the case of Zone 3, Afar Regional State, Ethiopia
Beyene, E.Zewdu.; Worku, A.; Bisrat, F.; Fantahun, M.
Ethiopian Medical Journal 51 Suppl. 1: 41-50
2013
ISSN/ISBN: 0014-1755 PMID: 24380206 Document Number: 578526
Strengthening routine immunization is one of the four pillars of the global polio eradication initiative. To determine the magnitude and factors associated with vaccination coverage among children age 12 -23 months in Zone 4 of Afar Regional State, Ethiopia. A community based cross-sectional study using the WHO modified cluster sampling method was carried out in Zone 3 of Afar Regional State between January 01 and May 31, 2009. The calculated sample size was 762 and 740 were included in the analysis of vaccination status. A total of 740 children aged 12-23 months were included in the study. Three hundred forty two (46%) respondents reported that their children were vaccinated at least once. Polio 3 coverage was found to be 35.0% and full immunization coverage was 20.6%. Respondents who could read and write had a higher likelihood of getting their children vaccinated compared to those who could not read or write [AOR = 0.18, 95% CI: 0.08-0.34]. Similarly age of the mother, husband's attitude and joint decision making by husband and wife were significantly associated with child immunization adjusted for other factors. The population immunity for polio measured by routine polio vaccine uptake in the study area indicated a high risk for wild polio virus outbreaks following importations, and the emergence and spread of circulating vaccine- derived polio virus. Literacy, positive attitude towards immunization and decision power are important factors to be addressed.