Gaps in knowledge about the vaccine coverage of immunocompromised children: a scoping review

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Immunology
• Vaccinology
• Public Health

Background:

• Immunocompromised children face higher risks of severe illness from vaccine-preventable diseases.
• Maintaining adequate vaccine coverage in this vulnerable group is a significant public health concern.
• The increasing use of immunosuppressive therapies necessitates a clear understanding of vaccination status.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a scoping review of the current knowledge on vaccine coverage in immunocompromised children.
• To identify which vaccines and immunocompromising conditions have been most studied.
• To pinpoint gaps in the existing literature regarding vaccine uptake in specific pediatric populations.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive search of bibliographic databases was performed for primary research studies.
• Data from eligible studies were analyzed using both quantitative and narrative approaches.
• Ninety-seven studies met the inclusion criteria for the review.

Main Results:

• Pneumococcal and influenza vaccines were the most frequently studied.
• Cancer, stem cell transplants, solid organ transplants, and sickle cell disease were common conditions examined.
• Significant gaps in knowledge were identified concerning specific vaccine types within particular immunocompromised pediatric groups.

Conclusions:

• Current research highlights variability in vaccine coverage among immunocompromised children.
• Further investigation is crucial to ensure appropriate age- and condition-specific vaccination for these high-risk children.
• Addressing identified knowledge gaps will inform better vaccination policies and practices for immunocompromised pediatric populations.