Background

Childhood immunization remains one of the most effective public health interventions for reducing morbidity and mortality from vaccine-preventable diseases. Despite global progress, significant disparities in vaccination coverage persist due to socioeconomic, healthcare access, educational, and geographic factors. Recent WHO and UNICEF estimates indicate that routine immunization coverage has improved globally, yet millions of children remain under-immunized or completely unvaccinated. (UNICEF DATA)

Objective

To assess immunization coverage among children aged 12–23 months and identify determinants associated with complete and incomplete vaccination status.

Methods

A multicenter cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 2,000 children attending primary healthcare facilities and pediatric clinics. Data regarding vaccination status, parental characteristics, healthcare access, antenatal care utilization, and socioeconomic factors were collected and analyzed.

Results

Overall full immunization coverage was 81.6%. Maternal education, household income, antenatal care attendance, healthcare accessibility, and parental awareness were significant predictors of complete immunization. Children whose mothers attended four or more antenatal visits were significantly more likely to be fully immunized. Similar determinants have been reported in international studies evaluating childhood vaccination uptake. (Frontiers)

Conclusion

Although immunization coverage has improved substantially, inequities remain. Strengthening maternal healthcare, improving health education, expanding outreach services, and addressing socioeconomic barriers are critical to achieving universal childhood immunization.