Exploring the Determinants of Childhood Immunisation

This study attempts to analyse the effects of some selected demographic and socio-economic predictor variables on the likelihood of immunisation of a child for six vaccine-preventable diseases covered under the Universal Immunisation Programme. It focuses on immunisation coverage (a) at the all India level, (b) in rural and urban areas, (c) in Bihar, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, and (d) for three groups of states, the empowered action group, north-eastern and other states. The study applies a logistic regression model to National Family Health Survey-2 (1998-99) data. The likelihood of immunisation increases with urban residence, mother's education level, mother's exposure to mass media, mother's awareness about immunisation, antenatal care during pregnancy and other such variables. Further research with both demand- and supply-side issues and current data is critical to help policymakers make the immunisation programme universal