Immunisation coverage estimates by cluster sampling survey of children (aged 12–23 months) in Gauteng province, 2003

Abstract

Routine data using the district health information system indicated low immunization coverage rates for Gauteng Province in South Africa. The Gauteng Department of Health initiated a survey to verify coverage rates as immunization and child health services are a priority for the province and immunization is a cornerstone of child health interventions. A standard Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) coverage survey with 30 randomly selected clusters with a minimum of seven children in each cluster was conducted in the province during 2003. The survey found that 79.1% (CI, 71%-87%) of children were fully immunized. However, only just over 50% of children were immunized on time. Most children were taken to public sector facilities for immunization services and there was no difference in coverage rates between the children who used the public sector compared to those who used the private sector. There were also no differences found by social class where housing type was used as a proxy for social class.