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Parents' perspectives on the MMR immunisation: a focus group study
M Evans1, H Stoddart, L Condon
1Division of Primary Health Care, University of Bristol. m.a.evans@bristol.ac.uk
Parental decisions about the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine are influenced by perceived risks, media information, trust in health professionals, and individual choice. Open discussions are desired for informed choices.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Immunization Research
- Pediatric Health
Background:
- Declining measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine uptake in Britain since 1998.
- Persistent parental concerns regarding MMR vaccine safety, particularly links to autism and bowel disorders.
- Need to understand parental decision-making factors to improve health service responsiveness.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate influences on parental decisions regarding MMR vaccination.
- Assess the impact of the MMR vaccine safety controversy on uptake.
- Identify factors affecting acceptance or refusal of the primary MMR immunization.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study employing focus group discussions.
- Involved 48 parents of children aged 14 months to 3 years across diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.
- Utilized purposive sampling and modified grounded theory for data analysis.
Main Results:
- Parents found the MMR decision difficult and felt pressured by healthcare providers.
- Department of Health safety reassurances were not convincing; some parents accepted MMR reluctantly.
- Key influences included perceived risks/benefits, media information, trust in health professionals, and views on individual choice.
Conclusions:
- Parents desire readily available, up-to-date information on MMR risks and benefits prior to appointments.
- Lack of confidence in health professionals stemmed from awareness of immunization targets.
- Parents expressed a desire for more open dialogue regarding immunizations with healthcare providers.
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