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Immunization Gaps Among High-Risk Preterm Infants in Kazakhstan
Balzhan N Tatibekova1,2, Daniel Yakubovich3, Ademi K Sagatbayeva1
1Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Astana Medical University, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan.
Vaccines
|July 27, 2026
Summary
High-risk preterm infants in Kazakhstan show significant, ongoing gaps in childhood immunizations post-discharge. Improving vaccination strategies and care coordination is crucial for protecting vulnerable infants from preventable diseases.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal care
- Pediatric immunology
- Public health
Background:
- Neonatal intensive care advances improve preterm infant survival in Kazakhstan.
- Vulnerable preterm infants face risks from vaccine-preventable infections post-discharge due to medical exemptions and fragmented care.
Purpose of the Study:
- Assess vaccination coverage in a 10-year cohort of high-risk preterm infants.
- Identify factors (clinical, parental, organizational) linked to delayed infant immunization.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cohort study of 331 preterm infants (2015-2024) in Astana, Kazakhstan.
- Analysis of vaccination status, medical exemptions, and reasons for delays.
- Supplementary surveys of parents, physicians, and managers explored immunization barriers.
Main Results:
- At discharge, 78.2% of infants lacked BCG or hepatitis B vaccines.
- By 24 months, only 34.1% were fully vaccinated; 49.8% remained unvaccinated.
- Measles and pertussis outbreaks affected the cohort, with severe complications including SSPE and pneumonia.
Conclusions:
- Significant and persistent immunization gaps exist for high-risk preterm infants after hospital discharge.
- Regular reassessment of medical exemptions and improved care coordination are vital.
- Strengthened catch-up immunization strategies are needed for medically vulnerable children.
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