Peer-Reviewed Article | Spatial distribution of zero-dose children in Ethiopia

Ethiopia is the fourth leading contributor to the global total of zero-dose children (those who lack the first dose of diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis containing vaccine) and has substantial regional variations in zero-dose children. This study explored the spatial pattern of zero-dose children aged 12–35 months in Ethiopia. A survey was conducted in pastoralist regions, developing regions, newly established regions, conflict-affected areas, underserved urban populations, hard-to-reach areas, internally displaced populations, and refugees. According to the hotspot analysis, western, eastern and northern parts of Somali and western and central parts of Afar regions had the highest load of zero-dose children (hotspot areas) followed by the Northeastern part of Amhara and southeastern part of Oromia regions. On the other hand, Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples, Sidama, and the Eastern part of the Southwest Ethiopia Peoples regions were identified as cold spot areas. The spatial interpolation analysis corresponded with the hotspot analysis results where western and central parts of Afar and western, eastern and northern parts of Somali regions were identified as high-risk areas for zero-dose children. However, Addis Ababa, Dire Dawa, Harari, Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples, Sidama, Southwest Ethiopia Peoples, and parts of Oromia were found to be low-risk areas for zero-dose children. The spatial analysis identified that zero-dose children had a significant spatial variation across the study areas. Implementing routine and mop-up vaccination campaigns in the identified hotspot areas will help Ethiopia to improve coverage and reduce immunization inequalities.