"It takes time to build trust": a survey Ontario's school-based HPV immunization program ten years...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Vaccinology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is crucial for preventing HPV-related cancers.
• School-based vaccination programs are a key strategy for achieving high HPV vaccine coverage.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the organization and delivery of Ontario's school-based HPV vaccination program from the perspective of local public health units (PHUs).
• To identify challenges and facilitators in implementing the HPV vaccination program in schools.

Main Methods:

• An online survey was distributed to Vaccine Preventable Diseases (VPD) managers in all 35 Ontario PHUs.
• The survey assessed program delivery, provider training, communication strategies, coverage assessment, and perceived strengths and challenges.
• Descriptive statistics and thematic content analysis were used to analyze the data.

Main Results:

• Eighteen PHUs responded, with all providing the HPV vaccine in publicly funded schools; only 6 could offer it in private schools.
• Locally developed fact sheets and Q&As were primary communication tools for parents, students, and school personnel.
• Key barriers included limited resources, negative vaccine perceptions, logistical issues with consent and delivery, and the program's voluntary nature.

Conclusions:

• Local public health units face significant barriers in delivering school-based HPV vaccination programs.
• Logistical challenges, public and school staff perceptions, and the non-mandatory status of the vaccine impede program success.