Factors that Influence Uptake of Vaccination in Pregnancy

Influenza and Pertussis are vaccine preventable diseases carrying significant morbidity and mortality in pregnant women and infants. The uptake of these vaccinations in pregnancy is suboptimal. Our study aimed to identify factors influencing our pregnant patient's knowledge, beliefs and perceptions. A self-administered, specifically devised, 34-point questionnaire was taken by antenatal patients in a primary care setting from November 2015 to March 2016. A majority believe both diseases are serious during pregnancy or infancy but many are unsure on vaccination safety. A majority of respondents at 80/88 (91%) consider their GP's advice reliable on this matter. Our key message is that health care provider recommendation is the most powerful tool to improve vaccination uptake. Our research clearly identifies GP's as the most trusted source of information, making it crucial to deliver accurate information to this high-risk group.