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Published on: August 12, 2020
Underimmunization at discharge from the neonatal intensive care unit
A M Navar-Boggan1, N A Halsey, G J Escobar
1Department of Internal medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA. ann.navar@duke.edu
Summary
Many infants discharged from the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) are not up-to-date on immunizations. This study identified factors associated with underimmunization, highlighting the need for improved vaccination strategies before NICU discharge.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal care
- Pediatric immunology
- Public health
Background:
- Neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) provide critical care for vulnerable infants.
- Timely immunizations are crucial for protecting infants from vaccine-preventable diseases.
- Underimmunization in this population can lead to increased risk of infection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine immunization rates at discharge for infants aged 2 months and older from the NICU.
- To identify risk factors associated with underimmunization at NICU discharge.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cohort study of 668 infants discharged from six Northern California Kaiser Permanente NICUs on or after 60 days of age.
- Immunization status at discharge was assessed.
- Logistic regression analysis was employed to identify risk factors for underimmunization.
Main Results:
- Only 51% of infants were up-to-date on routine immunizations at discharge.
- Twenty-seven percent of infants had received no vaccines.
- Mechanical ventilation, congenital heart disease, apnea, and bronchopulmonary dysplasia were associated with higher immunization rates, while surgery was linked to lower rates.
Conclusions:
- A substantial proportion of infants discharged from the NICU at 2 months or older were underimmunized.
- Interventions to improve immunization rates prior to NICU discharge are necessary.
- Targeted strategies may be required for infants with specific medical conditions or interventions.
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