Background: Strengthening routine immunization is one of the four pillars of the global polio eradication initiative.
Objectives: To determine the magnitude and factors associated with vaccination coverage among children age 12 -23 months in Zone 4 of Afar Regional State, Ethiopia.
Methods: A community based cross-sectional study using the WHO modified cluster sampling method was carried out in Zone 3 of Afar Regional State between January 01 and May 31, 2009. The calculated sample size was 762 and 740 were included in the analysis of vaccination status.
Results: A total of 740 children aged 12-23 months were included in the study. Three hundred forty two (46%) respondents reported that their children were vaccinated at least once. Polio 3 coverage was found to be 35.0% and full immunization coverage was 20.6%. Respondents who could read and write had a higher likelihood of getting their children vaccinated compared to those who could not read or write [AOR = 0.18, 95% CI: 0.08-0.34]. Similarly age of the mother, husband's attitude and joint decision making by husband and wife were significantly associated with child immunization adjusted for other factors.
Conclusion: The population immunity for polio measured by routine polio vaccine uptake in the study area indicated a high risk for wild polio virus outbreaks following importations, and the emergence and spread of circulating vaccine- derived polio virus. Literacy, positive attitude towards immunization and decision power are important factors to be addressed.