Different perspectives of immunizations during pregnancy

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Immunology
• Maternal Health

Background:

• Pregnant women and infants face severe risks from influenza and pertussis infections.
• Vaccine uptake for influenza and pertussis during pregnancy is notably low.
• Proven benefits and safety of maternal immunization are not widely recognized.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess knowledge and attitudes of pregnant women and primary healthcare providers regarding immunization during pregnancy.
• To identify barriers to maternal immunization uptake.
• To evaluate the impact of educational interventions on maternal immunization.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional and interventional study conducted in northern Turkey in 2016.
• Involved 786 pregnant women, 146 primary healthcare staff, and 97 family practitioners.
• Utilized questionnaires and an educational intervention for expectant mothers.

Main Results:

• Despite favorable attitudes, influenza immunization was 1.1% and Tdap immunization was 0% among pregnant women.
• Healthcare staff and family physicians possessed knowledge but abstained from administering vaccines.
• No participants in the intervention group received immunization during the study period.

Conclusions:

• Low vaccination rates against pertussis and influenza were observed in both pregnant women and healthcare workers.
• Effective dissemination of maternal immunization requires collaborative efforts from healthcare professionals, authorities, and media.
• Evidence-based knowledge and teamwork are crucial for promoting maternal immunization.