Factors Associated With Rotavirus Vaccine Coverage

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Vaccinology
• Public Health Surveillance
• Immunization Programs

Background:

• Rotavirus vaccines (RVVs) were introduced in the US in 2006 and are coadministered with diphtheria-tetanus-acellular pertussis (DTaP) vaccines.
• Despite coadministration, RVV coverage remains lower than DTaP coverage.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the timing, initiation, and completion of the rotavirus vaccine series.
• To compare rotavirus vaccine coverage and timing with the diphtheria-tetanus-acellular pertussis vaccine series.
• To identify factors associated with rotavirus vaccine initiation and completion.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 10,603 children enrolled in active gastroenteritis surveillance was analyzed.
• Multivariable logistic regression models were used to determine odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).
• Characteristics associated with vaccine initiation and completion were examined.

Main Results:

• In 2015, rotavirus vaccine coverage was 91% for at least one dose, compared to 97% for DTaP.
• Factors associated with lower RVV initiation included preterm birth, older age at DTaP initiation, and lower household income.
• Factors associated with lower RVV completion included preterm birth, African American race, and public or no insurance.

Conclusions:

• Rotavirus vaccine coverage continues to trail that of the DTaP vaccine.
• Optimizing the timing of DTaP administration may be a strategy to improve rotavirus vaccine coverage.
• Regional variations in vaccine coverage were observed.