Determinants of partial participation in the immunization programmes in Iran

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Childhood immunization is crucial for preventing infectious diseases.
• Understanding factors influencing immunization coverage is vital for public health interventions.
• Previous studies have identified various socio-demographic and healthcare-related factors affecting vaccination rates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the national immunization coverage among children aged 12-23 months in Iran.
• To identify key factors associated with complete immunization status in the Iranian child population.
• To inform evidence-based strategies for enhancing child immunization programs.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from 45 cluster sample surveys conducted in Iran during 1986.
• Analyzed immunization status of children aged 12-23 months.
• Employed statistical methods to assess associations between coverage and various factors.

Main Results:

• Overall complete immunization coverage was 55% for children aged 12-23 months.
• Positive associations found between immunization coverage and maternal knowledge, maternal motivation, rural residence, and antenatal care utilization.
• No significant association observed between child immunization status and maternal tetanus immunization, hospital delivery, birth attendant education, or child's sex.

Conclusions:

• Maternal factors, rural living, and access to antenatal care are important determinants of childhood immunization coverage in Iran.
• Targeted interventions focusing on these factors may improve vaccination rates.
• Further research is needed to explore other potential barriers and facilitators to immunization.