Differentials and determinants of immunization coverage among children aged 12-36 months in India: Analysis of nationally-representative, population-based survey data

IntroductionImmunization coverage among children is still a major public health concern in India and other low-middle income countries. Low coverage likely risks the health of children and therefore impacts their overall growth. We therefore examined the immunization coverage rates among children aged 12-36 months in India and its states. We also explored the associated factors affecting immunization coverage among children aged 12-36 in India. MethodsWe used data from 75th round of the National Sample Survey Organizations (NSSO), collected from July 2017 to June 2018. The analytical sample of children aged 12-36 months information cases was 15887. Immunization coverage rates of India and its states were calculated. We evaluated the immunization coverage rate by background characteristics in India and its states. We performed multinomial logistic regression analysis to estimate the factors associated with the immunization coverage in India. ResultsAbout 61.95% were fully immunized, 35.62% were partially immunized and the rest 2.43% had not received any vaccine. The children aged 21-28 months (0.50; p<0.01) & 29-36 months (0.35; p<0.01), belonging to North-Eastern regions (0.60; p<0.01) were found to be significantly less likely to receive fully immunization. Likewise, urban children are (1.26; p<0.1) found to be more likely to receive fully immunization. The lowest fully immunization has been seen in Daman and Diu (1.73%) followed by Nagaland (6.93%), NCT Delhi (34.71%), and Tripura (46.33%). ConclusionsChild immunization is a key public health concern and vital challenge to be addressed. Socio-economic characteristics play a key role in immunization coverage. Therefore necessary policy measures must be taken to address the challenges of poor immunization coverage and its impact on health and wellbeing of children