Immunizations in Children With Chronic Diseases: A State of the Science Review With Implications for Practice Change

Insights

Children with chronic illnesses have lower vaccination rates, increasing their risk for vaccine-preventable diseases. Addressing barriers like inadequate education and provider comfort is crucial for improving immunization coverage.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Public Health
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Over 25% of American children have chronic diseases.
  • Children with chronic illnesses are at higher risk for complications from vaccine-preventable infections due to under-immunization.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review vaccination rates in U.S. children with chronic illnesses.
  • To identify barriers affecting immunization rates in this vulnerable population.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review of PubMed and CINAHL databases.
  • Included studies published between 2010 and 2020, focusing on U.S. children aged under 18.
  • Analyzed 18 relevant publications.

Main Results:

  • Children with chronic illnesses exhibit significantly lower vaccination rates compared to healthy peers.
  • These children face elevated risks of severe outcomes if infected with preventable diseases.

Conclusions:

  • Inadequate parent and provider education, nonmedical misconceptions, and provider discomfort are key barriers to timely vaccinations.
  • Further research and discussion are needed to ensure all children, especially those with chronic conditions, are adequately protected by immunizations.
Abstract

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