Child-parent immunization survey: How well are national immunization recommendations accepted by the target groups?

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Immunization
• Maternal Health

Background:

• Pertussis (whooping cough) poses a significant risk to infants in Switzerland.
• National guidelines recommend pertussis and influenza vaccination during pregnancy since 2013 and 2009, respectively.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the acceptance and implementation of maternal vaccination recommendations in Switzerland.
• To identify barriers to vaccination uptake among pregnant women.

Main Methods:

• Standardized interviews were conducted with mothers of hospitalized children born after January 1, 2013.
• Data collected included vaccination status, attitudes towards vaccines, and reasons for refusal.

Main Results:

• Only 3% of mothers received both pertussis and influenza vaccines during pregnancy.
• Low rates of vaccination recommendation were reported by mothers.
• Key reasons for refusal included perceived lack of usefulness and safety concerns for the child.

Conclusions:

• Maternal immunization rates for pertussis and influenza remain low.
• Healthcare provider recommendations are critical for improving uptake.
• Enhancing awareness and acceptance among healthcare professionals is essential.