Determinants of tetanus toxoid immunization in pregnancy in rural Bihar

Abstract

In order to increase the uptake of tetanus toxoid (TT) vaccination, we need to understand the factors that underlie the decision of the pregnant woman to undergo vaccination, especially in rural areas, where 75% of India's population resides. This paper constructs a model from a data-set of 2398 women in order to understand the determinants of TT vaccine immunization by women during their most recent pregnancy and applies it to the National Family Health Survey-2 data. The object of the model is to predict the likelyhood of a pregnant woman receiving the recommended two doses of TT vaccine subject to other factors such as birth order, maternal education, prenatal care provider, household standard of living, health-care-seeking decision-maker and service availability. Policy implications of these findings are discussed.