Child immunization in Vietnam: situation and barriers to coverage

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Pediatrics
• Health Equity

Background:

• Child immunization is a cornerstone of public health, yet disparities in coverage persist globally.
• Understanding inequalities in immunization coverage is essential for developing targeted public health interventions.
• Vietnam faces challenges in ensuring equitable access to essential childhood vaccinations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the overall performance and identify inequalities in childhood immunization coverage in Vietnam.
• To pinpoint vulnerable populations with the greatest disparities in immunization rates.
• To determine factors influencing immunization gaps, especially for hard-to-reach populations.

Main Methods:

• Descriptive and logistic analysis of cross-national demographic and health data.
• Examination of immunization inequality across different socioeconomic and geographic groups.
• Identification of key demographic and socioeconomic determinants of immunization coverage.

Main Results:

• Significant immunization coverage gaps were observed, primarily affecting poor minority and poor rural children.
• Child's age, mother's education, and television viewing habits were significant factors influencing immunization rates.
• No significant differences in immunization coverage were found based on child's sex or birth order.

Conclusions:

• Interventions should prioritize poor children from minority groups and those in rural, remote areas to improve immunization coverage.
• Community development, increased investment in immunization programs, and grassroots service reorganization are vital.
• Addressing socioeconomic and geographic barriers is key to achieving equitable child immunization in Vietnam.