Sociocultural and geographical disparities in immunization among different geographical regions of Maharashtra

Abstract Background In Maharashtra, child immunization is an essential factor in maternal and child health services and effective in reduced child morbidity and mortality. The study focuses on the prevalence of child immunization in different geographical regions of Maharashtra. It also depicts the immunization status (no immunization, partial immunization, and full immunization) according to various socio-demographic characteristics and determinants of full Immunization and partial Immunization among children of age 12–23 months in Maharashtra Data source and Methodology: The fourth round of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-4) has been used for this study. The univariate analysis and simple chi-square test were conducted to test association. The Multinomial logistic regression model was conducted to determine the determinants of partial and full immunization. Result In the wealth category, the middle and richest are more likely to receive full immunization than the poorest people statically significant effect. In religion, Muslims less likely to receive full Immunization, and Buddhists more likely to use full immunization compare to Hindu people. In the different geographical regions of Maharashtra, North-Maharashtra, West-Maharashtra, Konkan is less likely to have full immunization correspond to the Vidarbha region. Mothers who have any media exposure are more likely to have full immunization compare to no media exposure. Conclusions To conclude, the study shows a need to adopt a multi-pronged strategy while formulating an action plan for immunization by keeping in mind that vaccination is a right of every child. An appropriate proportion of childhood immunization is required to develop “Herd Immunity” to protects other unimmunized children. The most “efficient” and “equitable” way should be chosen to deliver vaccination services to identify the population's risk group. Who has remained unimmunized? As immunization in the different geographical regions in Maharashtra remained very far from the target set by Mission Indradhushya. Hence, there is a need to focus more on responsible socio-demographic factors while implementing immunization services.