The Effect of Socio-Demographic Conditions on Vaccination Delinquency at the Elementary School Level

Abstract

Objectives: To explore factors associated with Vaccine delinquency at the elementary school level. Methods: 2016 Vaccine coverage data for 155 Elementary schools in Houston is used to determine vaccination compliance. Logistic regression is performed with compliance as outcome variable and independent variables representing students’ socio-economic profile, Student outcome measures, Teachers’ education profile and School rank. Results: Lower Compliance is associated with African American students (OR) (0.23, p=0.01) and students with ESL (English as second language), (0.45, p=0.03). Higher compliance associated with gifted/talented students (28.17, p=0.08). Conclusions: Vaccine delinquency is higher among African American students and ESL students. Language might be a barrier to access Vaccination services. Parents’ motivation is important for high vaccination coverage at the elementary school level. Policy Implications: Multilingual communication materials towards vaccination services might increase vaccination compliance in schools. Schools with large populations of ESL