Influenza immunization practices among pediatric oncologists

To describe the opinions of pediatric oncologists regarding the use of influenza vaccine in children with cancer and to identify factors that influence practitioners' recommendations about influenza vaccine.

A survey was sent to members of the Children's Oncology Group to inquire about their clinical experience and practice setting, opinions regarding the use of the influenza vaccine in children with cancer, and factors that influence their recommendations.

Of 803 pediatric oncologists identified, 434 (54%) responded. Depending on the type of tumor, 65% to 69% of pediatric oncologists indicated that they routinely recommend influenza vaccine for children being treated for cancer. Respondents were much more likely to recommend influenza vaccine for children with various types of cancer if they indicated that: 1) their practice has guidelines regarding the use of influenza vaccine (odds ratios ranging from 7.2 to 11.7); 2) influenza infection is very significant (odds ratios ranging from 1.4 to 3.7); and 3) influenza vaccine is effective (odds ratios ranging from 7.2 to 14.9).

The majority of pediatric oncologists routinely recommend influenza vaccine for children being treated for cancer; however, a significant number of pediatric oncologists do not. Clarification of the benefit of influenza vaccine for children with cancer and the institution of practice guidelines may increase the use of the influenza vaccine among pediatric oncologists.