Pneumococcal vaccination coverage and willingness in mainland China

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Vaccinology

Background:

• Pneumococcal vaccination is crucial for preventing pneumonia, especially in vulnerable populations.
• Understanding vaccination coverage and willingness is essential for targeted public health interventions in China.

Purpose of the Study:

• To estimate the current pneumococcal vaccination coverage and willingness among people in mainland China.
• To identify key factors influencing the willingness to receive pneumococcal vaccination.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted across English and Chinese databases up to October 2021.
• Random-effects meta-analysis was employed to synthesize data from 97 included studies.
• Subgroup analysis and meta-regression explored heterogeneity in coverage and willingness.

Main Results:

• Overall pneumococcal vaccination coverage was 21.7%, with variations across regions and resident types (permanent vs. floating).
• Vaccination willingness was estimated at 51.2%, higher in urban areas and among parents and those with a pneumonia history.
• Factors positively associated with willingness included recommendations from family/physicians, previous vaccinations, and perceived vaccine effectiveness.

Conclusions:

• Pneumococcal vaccination coverage and willingness in mainland China are lower compared to global benchmarks.
• Public health strategies should leverage physician recommendations, patient history, and education on vaccine effectiveness to enhance uptake.