Improving Tdap maternal immunization rate in Saudi Arabia

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Immunology
• Obstetrics & Gynecology

Background:

• Pertussis (whooping cough) poses a significant risk to unvaccinated infants, even with high childhood vaccination rates.
• Maternal immunization is a recognized strategy to protect young infants from pertussis.
• Saudi Arabia recommended maternal pertussis immunization with the tetanus-diphtheria-acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine in 2019.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess obstetricians'/gynecologists' attitudes towards maternal pertussis immunization in Saudi Arabia.
• To identify barriers hindering the recommendation and uptake of maternal Tdap vaccination.
• To inform strategies for improving maternal immunization rates.

Main Methods:

• An online survey was conducted among 60 obstetricians/gynecologists in Saudi Arabia.
• The survey, administered in November-December 2020, focused on their views on maternal pertussis immunization.
• Data collected included awareness of national recommendations and perceived barriers.

Main Results:

• Less than 50% of respondents viewed maternal immunization as part of their role; only 47% knew about the national Tdap recommendation.
• Key barriers included anticipated patient refusal and a lack of physician knowledge/experience regarding the vaccine and recommendation.
• Vaccine availability and supply were significant barriers, while cost and resources were less concerning.

Conclusions:

• Sub-optimal uptake of maternal Tdap vaccination in Saudi Arabia is likely due to low physician awareness and perceived patient barriers.
• Strategies to improve uptake should focus on disseminating evidence-based information to physicians.
• Educating pregnant women and addressing public misconceptions are crucial for enhancing maternal immunization.