中国P站

Abstract

Background: Immunization is a crucial public health intervention, known for its cost-effectiveness in preventing diseases and improving health outcomes. It plays a significant role in reducing child mortality and morbidity. In Ethiopia, a nation characterized by diverse socio-economic and demographic backgrounds, immunization coverage shows considerable variation.

Objective: The objective of this study is to assess immunization coverage across various vaccines in Ethiopia, understand the prevalence and factors affecting immunization rates.

Method: This study utilized secondary data from the 2019 Ethiopian Mini Demographic and Health Survey (EMDHS), a community-based cross-sectional study. The analysis included Ethiopian children aged 12-23 months to assess the coverage of basic childhood vaccinations. A Poisson regression model was used to evaluate the children's immunization coverage, measured as count data: The number of vaccinations a child received across 18 different vaccines (BCG, DPT1, DPT3, Polio 0-3, Measles 1-2, Pentavalent 1-3, Pneumococcal 1-3 and Rotavirus 1-2). Predictors of this outcome variable were identified, with statistical significance determined at a p-value of less than 0.05.

Result: Immunization coverage in Ethiopia shows variability across different vaccines. BCG vaccination has the highest coverage at 34.42%, while Measles 2 shows the lowest at 3.74%. The coverage rates for DPT, Pneumococcal, Polio and Rotavirus vaccines also vary, with notable decreases in subsequent doses. The poisson regression analysis reveals that children in Afar have significantly lower immunization rates compared to other regions (p<0.01). Muslim children show higher immunization counts compared to Orthodox children (p<0.05), while rural areas have lower coverage compared to urban areas (p<0.01). Wealthier households (p<0.01), female-headed households (p<0.05) and families with educated mothers (p<0.05) demonstrate higher immunization rates. Deliveries at public (p<0.01) and NGO health facilities (p<0.01) are associated with increased immunization counts, while private facilities show no significant impact (p>0.05). Maternal ANC visits (p<0.01), pregnancy counselling (p<0.05) and family planning (p<0.01) are positively correlated with higher immunization coverage.

 Conclusion: Immunization coverage in Ethiopia remains below the African average, highlighting the need for targeted strategies to address regional disparities and socio-economic barriers. Although there are improvements in some areas, significant gaps persist, particularly in completing vaccination series. Addressing these gaps through tailored interventions, improving health infrastructure and increasing awareness are crucial steps toward achieving higher immunization coverage and better health outcomes for Ethiopian children.