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Odongo DO, Osir E, Awandu SS. An evaluation of physical access barriers to COVID-19 vaccines uptake among persons with physical disabilities in western Kenya. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1112. [PMID: 38649905 PMCID: PMC11036731 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18592-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physically disabled persons continue to be discriminated, excluded and neglected based on design of structures and their location. This hampers equitable access to services and disproportionately affect them during a pandemic. This study aimed to evaluate physical access barriers to COVID-19 vaccines among persons with physical disabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic, (March 2020 to March 2022) in Ugenya Sub-county, Siaya County in Western Kenya. METHODS The study design was cross-sectional. 108 physically disabled participants were selected using systematic sampling technique. Data was collected using structured questionnaires. RESULTS Vaccination location (χ2 = 95.480, p = 0.001), access to the vaccination room (χ2 = 84.098, p = 0.001) and mobility impaired (χ2= 16.168, p = 0.001) had statistically significant associations with uptake of COVID-19 vaccine. Income levels, belief in existence of COVID-19, information from mass media and being married increased the odds of becoming vaccinated (AOR = 1.5, 95% CI 0.7-3.4), (AOR = 1.8, 95% CI 0.8-4.0) (AOR = 2.5, 95% CI 1.5-4.2) and (AOR = 2.2, 95% CI 1.3-3.9) respectively. The binary logistic regression analysis showed that transport cost and age (p = 0.001) had statistically significant associations with COVID-19 vaccine access and uptake. Those who had difficulty in movement and speaking found uptake of COVID-19 vaccine hard (p = 0.001). CONCLUSION Marital status, information from reliable sources, belief in existence of COVID-19 were associated with access to and uptake of COVID-19 vaccine. Additionally, nonpayment of transport cost increased the odds of becoming vaccinated. Therefore, mobile health teams should be put in place to reach the physically disabled who are hard-to-leave home. Additionally, reimbursement of amount spent on transportation can be adopted to boost access to healthcare services by the physically disabled persons.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Omondi Odongo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health Sciences, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, Bondo, Kenya.
| | - Esther Osir
- Department of Public Health and Community Health & Development, School of Health Sciences, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, Bondo, Kenya
| | - Shehu Shagari Awandu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health Sciences, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, Bondo, Kenya
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Senjam SS, Manna S, Goel G, Balhara YPS, Ray A, Gupta Y, Lomi N, Gupta V, Vashist P, Titiyal JS, Kashyap N, Kumar R. Vaccination coverage against COVID-19 among rural population in Haryana, India: A cross-sectional study. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0299564. [PMID: 38457391 PMCID: PMC10923481 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Conducting a study in rural pre-dominant areas will help to understand the penetration of the vaccination campaign during the COVID-19 health crisis. This study aimed to investigate vaccination coverage against COVID-19 among the rural adult population in India and to identify factors associated with vaccination coverage. METHODS A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted among the rural population in one district of north India from January to February 2023. A semi-structured questionnaire was designed on the SurveyMonkey digital platform for interviewing the participants, which consisted of questions related to socio-demographic profile, health problems, vaccination status, types of vaccine, re-infection after vaccination, and functional difficulties. The data regarding infection with COVID-19 was collected based on self-reported positive testing for SARS-CoV 2 on RT-PCR. FINDINGS A total of 3700 eligible individuals were enumerated for the survey, out of which 2954 (79.8%) were interviewed. The infection rate of past COVID-19 infection, based on self-report of testing positive, was 6.2% (95%CI: 5.3-7.1). Covishield vaccine was received by most participants (81.3%, 2380) followed by Covaxin (12.3%, 361) and Pfizer manufactured vaccine (0.03,1). The coverage for first, second, and booster doses of the vaccine was 98.2% (2902), 94.8% (2802), and 10.7% (315) respectively. The risk of reinfection at 12 months or more among participants with two doses of vaccine was 1.6% (46/2802, 95%CI: 1.2-2.1). The coverage among those with severe functional difficulties was lesser as compared to those with some or no difficulties. INTERPRETATION Vaccination coverage against COVID-19 in rural Haryana, India is not dependent on factors like gender or occupation but is dependent on age and education. Although the full and partial vaccination coverage is high, the booster dose coverage is poor. In addition, the presence of severe disability was significantly associated with reduced vaccination coverage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suraj Singh Senjam
- Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Souvik Manna
- Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Garima Goel
- Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Yatan Pal Singh Balhara
- Department of Psychiatry, National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Animesh Ray
- Department of Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Yashdeep Gupta
- Department of Endocrinology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Neiwete Lomi
- Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Vivek Gupta
- Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Praveen Vashist
- Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Jeewan Singh Titiyal
- Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Nitin Kashyap
- Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Rajesh Kumar
- Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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Ong N, Brogan D, Lucien A, Wolman S, Campbell D, Deng L, Koirala A, Garg P, Sharma K. The development and evaluation of a vaccination pathway for children with intellectual and developmental disability and needle fear. PAEDIATRIC & NEONATAL PAIN 2024; 6:1-9. [PMID: 38504870 PMCID: PMC10946674 DOI: 10.1002/pne2.12103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
This qualitative study describes the development and evaluation of a clinical pathway to facilitate the implementation of catch-up vaccinations for children with significant needle fear, particularly in children with developmental disabilities. The Specialist Immunization Team, based at a tertiary level teaching children's hospital, participated in process mapping activities using Motivational Interviewing (MI) techniques and reflective discussions. Team members developed a clinical pathway by incorporating parental feedback from semistructured interviews and clinical expertise from within the team, facilitated by colleagues from the Child Development Unit. A process map was developed that included process strengths and touch points with an action plan that was discussed and agreed upon. A repeat process mapping activity was conducted 16 months later. Reports from parental feedback included: positive, efficient, and successful experiences of having their child undergo catch-up vaccinations. The experience empowered families for further procedures. Team members reported improvements in triaging appropriate children for the pathway, and an increase in confidence to interact and manage behaviors of children with significant anxiety and challenging behaviors. They also reported an increase in successful vaccinations with improved clinical judgment of facilitating the sedation pathway. This study demonstrates that using group facilitation using motivational interviewing in reflective discussions and process mapping utilizing parent and staff feedback in service improvement activities results in efficient and successful service delivery with improved patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Ong
- Child Development Unit, Children's Hospital at WestmeadSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and HealthUniversity of SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Deidre Brogan
- Specialist Immunisation Team, Children's Hospital at WestmeadSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and SurveillanceSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Abbie Lucien
- UNSW MedicineUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Shayna Wolman
- St. Vincent's HospitalSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | | | - Lucy Deng
- Specialist Immunisation Team, Children's Hospital at WestmeadSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and SurveillanceSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Archana Koirala
- Specialist Immunisation Team, Children's Hospital at WestmeadSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and SurveillanceSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Pankaj Garg
- Specialist Intellectual Disability Health Team, South Western Sydney Local Health DistrictSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Ketaki Sharma
- Specialist Immunisation Team, Children's Hospital at WestmeadSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and SurveillanceSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
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Martin R, Maleche A, Gay J, Fatima H. Lessons learnt from COVID-19 to reduce mortality and morbidity in the Global South: addressing global vaccine equity for future pandemics. BMJ Glob Health 2024; 9:e013680. [PMID: 38167259 PMCID: PMC10773420 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2023-013680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
COVID-19, which killed more than 6 million people, will not be the last pandemic. Vaccines are key to preventing and ending pandemics. Therefore, it is critical to move now, before the next pandemic, towards global vaccine equity with shared goals, intermediate steps and long-term advocacy goals. Scientific integrity, ethical development, transparency, accountability and communication are critical. Countries can draw on lessons learnt from their response to the HIV pandemics, which has been at the vanguard of ensuring equitable access to rights-based services, to create shared goals and engage communities to increase access to and delivery of safe, quality vaccines. Access can be increased by: fostering the spread of mRNA intellectual property (IP) rights, with mRNA vaccine manufacturing on more continents; creating price transparency for vaccines; creating easily understandable, accessible and transparent data on vaccines; creating demand for a new international legal framework that allows IP rights to be waived quickly once a global pandemic is identified; and drawing on scientific expertise from around the world. Delivery can be improved by: creating strong public health systems that can deliver vaccines through the lifespan; creating or strengthening national regulatory agencies and independent national scientific advisory committees for vaccines; disseminating information from reliable, transparent national and subnational surveillance systems; improving global understanding that as more scientific data become available, this may result in changes to public health guidance; prioritising access to vaccines based on scientific criteria during an epidemic; and developing strategies to vaccinate those at highest risk with available vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Martin
- Global Health Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Allan Maleche
- Kenya Legal & Ethical Issues Network on HIV and AIDS (KELIN), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jill Gay
- Global Health Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- J Gay Associates, Takoma Park, Maryland, USA
| | - Haram Fatima
- Global Health Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Hollis ND, Zhou T, Rice CE, Yeargin-Allsopp M, Cree RA, Singleton JA, Santibanez TA, Ryerson AB. Inequities in COVID-19 vaccination coverage for adolescents with and without disability, national immunization Survey-Child COVID module, July 22, 2021-February 26, 2022. Disabil Health J 2023; 16:101509. [PMID: 37558552 PMCID: PMC10961908 DOI: 10.1016/j.dhjo.2023.101509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Some people with disabilities are likely at increased risk of health impacts from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). OBJECTIVE To describe parent-reported COVID-19 vaccination status of adolescents (aged 13-17 years) and parental intent to get their child vaccinated, among adolescents with versus without disability. METHODS National Immunization Survey-Child COVID Module data from interviews conducted July 22, 2021-February 26, 2022, were analyzed to assess disability status and type and COVID-19 vaccination status for adolescents (n = 12,445). Prevalence estimates with 95% confidence intervals were calculated; T-tests were conducted. RESULTS A lower percentage of adolescents with disability received ≥1 dose of COVID-19 vaccine compared to adolescents without disability (52.5% vs. 58.6%), [those with cognition (50.8%) or not performing errands independently (49.5%) disabilities were significantly lower]; and a higher percentage of parents reported intent to definitely vaccinate (9.9% vs. 6.5%) and definitely not vaccinate (14.9% vs. 11.8%) their adolescent. Among the unvaccinated adolescents, parents of those with disability were more likely to report difficulty getting their child vaccinated (19.1% vs. 12.9%), inconvenient vaccination-site operating hours (7.6% vs. 3.9%), difficulty knowing where to get their child vaccinated (7.2% vs. 2.7%), and difficulty getting to vaccination sites (6.0% vs. 3.0%), than parents of those without disability. CONCLUSIONS Adolescents with disability had lower vaccination coverage compared to adolescents without disability. Parents of adolescents with disability reported higher intent to get their adolescents vaccinated, but among unvaccinated adolescents with disability, parents reported greater difficulty in accessing COVID-19 vaccines. Findings highlight the need for prioritized outreach to increase COVID-19 vaccination for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- NaTasha D Hollis
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA; Commissioned Corps, U.S. Public Health Service, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Tianyi Zhou
- Immunization Services Division, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA; Leidos, Inc. Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Catherine E Rice
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Marshalyn Yeargin-Allsopp
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Robyn A Cree
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - James A Singleton
- Immunization Services Division, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Tammy A Santibanez
- Immunization Services Division, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - A Blythe Ryerson
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Agus DB, Nguyen A, Bell J. Successful adult vaccine drives must centre disability inclusion - Authors' reply. Lancet 2023; 402:370. [PMID: 37516540 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(23)01306-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- David B Agus
- Lawrence J Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine, Los Angeles, CA 90064, USA.
| | - Aurelia Nguyen
- Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, Le Grand-Saconnex, Switzerland
| | - John Bell
- Medical Sciences Division, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Hart JD, Ong DS, Chokephaibulkit K, Ong-Lim AT, Vereti I, Crawford NW, Russell F. Considerations for vaccinating children against COVID-19. BMJ Paediatr Open 2023; 7:e001964. [PMID: 37487674 PMCID: PMC10373744 DOI: 10.1136/bmjpo-2023-001964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 vaccines have been introduced in children and adolescents in many countries. However, high levels of community transmission and infection-derived immunity make the decision to introduce COVID-19 vaccination of children in countries yet to do so particularly challenging. For example, other vaccine preventable diseases, including measles and polio, generally have far higher childhood morbidity and mortality in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs) than COVID-19, and coverage with these vaccines has declined during the pandemic. Many countries are yet to introduce pneumococcal conjugate and rotavirus vaccines for children, which prevent common causes of childhood death, or human papillomavirus vaccine for adolescents. The Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines that have been widely tested in children and adolescents have a positive risk-benefit profile. However, the benefit is less compared with other life-saving vaccines in this age group, particularly in LMICs and settings with widespread infection-derived immunity. The resources required for rollout may also pose a considerable challenge in LMICs. In this paper, we describe COVID-19 in children, with a focus on LMICs, and summarise the published literature on safety, efficacy and effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccination in children and adolescents. We highlight the complexity of decision-making regarding COVID-19 vaccination of children now that most of this low-risk population benefit from infection-derived immunity. We emphasise that at-risk groups should be prioritised for COVID-19 vaccination; and that if COVID-19 vaccines are introduced for children, the opportunity should be taken to improve coverage of routine childhood vaccines and preventative healthcare. Additionally, we highlight the paucity of epidemiological data in LMICs, and that for future epidemics, measures need to be taken to ensure equitable access to safe and efficacious vaccines before exposure to infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- John D Hart
- Infection, Immunity and Global Health Theme, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Darren Suryawijaya Ong
- Infection, Immunity and Global Health Theme, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kulkanya Chokephaibulkit
- Siriraj Institute of Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Anna T Ong-Lim
- Division of Infectious and Tropical Disease in Pediatrics, College of Medicine, Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Ilisapeci Vereti
- Department of Paediatrics, Colonial War Memorial Hospital, Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Suva, Fiji
| | - Nigel W Crawford
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- General Medicine, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Fiona Russell
- Infection, Immunity and Global Health Theme, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Vaillant V, Tretiakova I, Berthold D, Scheer M, Kimmig A, Hagenguth A, Kaestner J, Meinhardt A, Kriwy P, Wolff J, Hauch H. Vaccine Preventable Diseases in Pediatric Palliative Care - A Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study. J Pain Symptom Manage 2023; 65:101-110. [PMID: 36334849 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2022.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Vaccine preventable diseases lead to distressful symptoms and complications among pediatric patients receiving specialized home palliative care. There was no data on the vaccination compliance. OBJECTIVES The objective was to determine the vaccination coverage, discuss the relevance of vaccinations and provide vaccination recommendations in pediatric palliative care. METHODS Vaccination data were compared in a multicenter cross-sectional study. Expert interviews were conducted to evaluate symptom burden. The vaccination status of patients treated by six German pediatric specialized home palliative care teams was recorded from January 2019 to December 2019. The data were compared to the national immunization schedule and the vaccination rate of a representative German pediatric cohort. Onset of missed vaccination was compared to the date of diagnosis of the life-limiting condition. A risk score was calculated to evaluate the relevance of each individual vaccinations. RESULTS Vaccination rates of Tdpa, haemophilus influenzae type B, poliomyelitis, hepatitis B, pneumococcal disease, meningococcal diseases type C, and MMR were lower compared to healthy controls. There were no significant differences in varicella. In most cases the discontinuation of recommended immunizations occurred after diagnosis of the palliative condition. Influenza had the highest risk score and was the most frequent vaccine preventable disease in retrospective data. This paper includes a pragmatic proposal for the management of vaccination in this vulnerable population. CONCLUSION Children and adolescents with life-limiting conditions are at increased risk of vaccine preventable diseases. Individual vaccination counselling is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera Vaillant
- University Hospital of Giessen and Marburg, Palliative Care Team for Children (V.V., A.M., H.H.), Giessen, Hesse, Germany.
| | - Irina Tretiakova
- Bad Hersfeld Hospital, Academic Children's Hospital (I.T.), Bad Hersfeld, Hesse, Germany
| | - Daniel Berthold
- Department of Clinical Oncology and Palliative Care (D.B.), University Hospital of Giessen and Marburg, Giessen, Hesse, Germany
| | - Mario Scheer
- Children's Hospice Service Syke, Palliative Care Team (M.S.), Syke, Lower Saxony, Germany
| | - Astrid Kimmig
- University Children's Hospital Tuebingen, Palliative Care Team for Children (A.K.), Tuebingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | - Andrea Hagenguth
- German Red Cross "Heinrich-Schwesternschaft e.V.", Palliative Care Team (A.H.), Kiel, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
| | - Jens Kaestner
- University Hospital Jena, Palliative Care Team for Children (J.K.), Jena, Thuringia, Germany
| | - Andrea Meinhardt
- University Hospital of Giessen and Marburg, Palliative Care Team for Children (V.V., A.M., H.H.), Giessen, Hesse, Germany
| | - Peter Kriwy
- Chemnitz University of Technology (P.K.), Chemnitz, Saxony, Germany
| | | | - Holger Hauch
- University Hospital of Giessen and Marburg, Palliative Care Team for Children (V.V., A.M., H.H.), Giessen, Hesse, Germany
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Cleveland Sa L, Frydenlund E. The shortfalls of vulnerability indexes for public health decision-making in the face of emergent crises: the case of COVID-19 vaccine uptake in Virginia. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1042570. [PMID: 37206864 PMCID: PMC10188971 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1042570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Equitable and effective vaccine uptake is a key issue in addressing COVID-19. To achieve this, we must comprehensively characterize the context-specific socio-behavioral and structural determinants of vaccine uptake. However, to quickly focus public health interventions, state agencies and planners often rely on already existing indexes of "vulnerability." Many such "vulnerability indexes" exist and become benchmarks for targeting interventions in wide ranging scenarios, but they vary considerably in the factors and themes that they cover. Some are even uncritical of the use of the word "vulnerable," which should take on different meanings in different contexts. The objective of this study is to compare four vulnerability indexes produced by private, federal, and state institutions to assess the application of these measures to the needs of the COVID-19 pandemic and other emergent crises. We focus on federal, state, and private industries' vulnerability indexes for the Commonwealth of Virginia. Qualitative comparison is done by considering each index's methodologies to see how and why they defined and measured "vulnerability." We also quantitatively compare them using percent agreement and illustrate the overlaps in localities identified as among the most vulnerable on a choropleth map. Finally, we provide a short case study that explores vaccine uptake in the six localities that were identified by at least three indexes as most vulnerable, and six localities with very low vaccine coverage that were identified by two or fewer indexes as highly vulnerable. By comparing the methodologies and index (dis)agreements, we discuss the appropriateness of using pre-existing vulnerability indexes as a public health decision-making tool for emergent crises, using COVID-19 vaccine uptake as a case study. The inconsistencies reflected by these indexes show both the need for context-specific and time-sensitive data collection in public health and policy response, and a critical critique of measured "vulnerability."
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydia Cleveland Sa
- Storymodelers Lab, Graduate Program in International Studies, Virginia Modeling, Analysis, and Simulation Center, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, United States
- *Correspondence: Lydia Cleveland Sa,
| | - Erika Frydenlund
- Storymodelers Lab, Virginia Modeling Analysis and Simulation Center, Old Dominion University, Suffolk, VA, United States
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Vaccine cold chain management and cold storage technology to address the challenges of vaccination programs. ENERGY REPORTS 2022; 8. [PMCID: PMC8706030 DOI: 10.1016/j.egyr.2021.12.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
The outbreaks of infectious diseases that spread across countries have generally existed for centuries. An example is the occurrence of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, which led to the loss of lives and economic depreciation. One of the essential ways of handling the spread of viruses is the discovery and administration of vaccines. However, the major challenges of vaccination programs are associated with the vaccine cold chain management and cold storage facilities. This paper discusses how vaccine cold chain management and cold storage technology can address the challenges of vaccination programs. Specifically, it examines different systems for preserving vaccines in either liquid or frozen form to help ensure that they are not damaged during distribution from manufacturing facilities. Furthermore, A vaccine is likely to provide very low efficacy when it is not properly stored. According to preliminary studies, the inability to store vaccine properly is partly due to the incompetency of many stakeholders, especially in technical matters. The novelty of this study is to thoroughly explore cold storage technology for a faster and more comprehensive vaccine distribution hence it is expected to be one of the reference and inspiration for stakeholders.
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Reifferscheid L, Lee JSW, MacDonald NE, Sadarangani M, Assi A, Lemaire-Paquette S, MacDonald SE. Transition to endemic: acceptance of additional COVID-19 vaccine doses among Canadian adults in a national cross-sectional survey. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1745. [PMID: 36104675 PMCID: PMC9473459 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14025-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Additional doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been proposed as solutions to waning immunity and decreased effectiveness of primary doses against infection with new SARS-CoV-2 variants. However, the effectiveness of additional vaccine doses relies on widespread population acceptance. We aimed to assess the acceptance of additional COVID-19 vaccine doses (third and annual doses) among Canadian adults and determine associated factors. Methods We conducted a national, cross-sectional online survey among Canadian adults from October 14 to November 12, 2021. Weighted multinomial logistic regression analyses were used to identify sociodemographic and health-related factors associated with third and annual dose acceptance and indecision, compared to refusal. We also assessed influences on vaccine decision-making, and preferences for future vaccine delivery. Results Of 6010 respondents, 70% reported they would accept a third dose, while 15.2% were undecided. For annual doses, 64% reported acceptance, while 17.5% were undecided. Factors associated with third dose acceptance and indecision were similar to those associated with annual dose acceptance and indecision. Previous COVID-19 vaccine receipt, no history of COVID-19 disease, intention to receive an influenza vaccine, and increasing age were strongly associated with both acceptance and indecision. Chronic illness was associated with higher odds of acceptance, while self-reported disability was associated with higher odds of being undecided. Higher education attainment and higher income were associated with higher odds of accepting additional doses. Minority first language was associated with being undecided about additional doses, while visible minority identity was associated with being undecided about a third dose and refusing an annual dose. All respondents reported government recommendations were an important influence on their decision-making and identified pharmacy-based delivery and drop-in appointments as desirable. Co-administration of COVID-19 and influenza vaccines was viewed positively by 75.5% of the dose 3 acceptance group, 12.3% of the undecided group, and 8.4% of the refusal group. Conclusions To increase acceptance, targeted interventions among visible minority and minority language populations, and those with a disability, are required. Offering vaccination at pharmacies and through drop-in appointments are important to facilitate uptake, while offering COVID-19/influenza vaccine co-administration may have little benefit among those undecided about additional doses. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-022-14025-8.
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12
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Breaux RD, Rooks RN. The intersectional importance of race/ethnicity, disability, and age in flu vaccine uptake for U.S. adults. SSM Popul Health 2022; 19:101211. [PMID: 36052156 PMCID: PMC9425074 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2022.101211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Improving vaccination rates among marginalized populations is an important priority among public policy makers and healthcare providers in the United States of America (U.S.). Racial/ethnic minorities have a long history of reduced vaccination rates relative to white Americans (Khan, Hall, Tanner, & Marlow, 2018), while people with disabilities (PWD) have varied rates of vaccine use (Diab & Johnston, 2004; O'Neill, Newall, Antolovich, Lima, & Danchin, 2019). Yet, little is known about vaccine use among individuals who belong to both groups. This study examines the intersectional effects of race/ethnicity and disability on flu vaccine use. We used the 2015-2018 National Health Interview Survey to examine the odds of flu vaccine use by race/ethnicity, disability, and their interaction among adults aged 18+ in the U.S. non-institutionalized, civilian population stratified by age groups. For each unit increase in disability scores, we found a significant race-by-disability interaction for young black adults (18-39 years) who had higher odds of getting the flu vaccine compared to white adults in the same age group. A significant interaction occurred for middle-aged Hispanic vs. white adults (40-64 years) who had higher odds of getting the flu vaccine as their disability scores increased. Black vs. white adults were less likely to get the flu vaccine across all age groups irrespective of disability and other covariates, while results were more mixed among other racial/ethnic groups. Additionally, people with disabilities had higher odds of flu vaccination. Further, race/ethnicity had a moderating effect on the relationship between disability and flu vaccination and an interaction effect occurred between disability and certain racial/ethnic groups when stratified by age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca D Breaux
- University of Colorado Denver, 1224 5th Street, HUB, Denver, CO, 80204, USA
| | - Ronica N Rooks
- University of Colorado Denver, 3023C North Classroom, P.O. Box 173364, Campus Box 188, Denver, CO, 80217-3364, USA
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13
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Vujovich-Dunn C, Wand H, Brotherton JML, Gidding H, Sisnowski J, Lorch R, Veitch M, Sheppeard V, Effler P, Skinner SR, Venn A, Davies C, Hocking J, Whop L, Leask J, Canfell K, Sanci L, Smith M, Kang M, Temple-Smith M, Kidd M, Burns S, Selvey L, Meijer D, Ennis S, Thomson C, Lane N, Kaldor J, Guy R. Measuring school level attributable risk to support school-based HPV vaccination programs. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:822. [PMID: 35468743 PMCID: PMC9036743 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13088-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In Australia in 2017, 89% of 15-year-old females and 86% of 15-year-old males had received at least one dose of the HPV vaccine. However, considerable variation in HPV vaccination initiation (dose one) across schools remains. It is important to understand the school-level characteristics most strongly associated with low initiation and their contribution to the overall between-school variation. Methods A population-based ecological analysis was conducted using school-level data for 2016 on all adolescent students eligible for HPV vaccination in three Australian jurisdictions. We conducted logistic regression to determine school-level factors associated with lower HPV vaccination initiation (< 75% dose 1 uptake) and estimated the population attributable risk (PAR) and the proportion of schools with the factor (school-level prevalence). Results The factors most strongly associated with lower initiation, and their prevalence were; small schools (OR = 9.3, 95%CI = 6.1–14.1; 33% of schools), special education schools (OR = 5.6,95%CI = 3.7–8.5; 8% of schools), higher Indigenous enrolments (OR = 2.7,95% CI:1.9–3.7; 31% of schools), lower attendance rates (OR = 2.6,95%CI = 1.7–3.7; 35% of schools), remote location (OR = 2.6,95%CI = 1.6–4.3; 6% of schools,) and lower socioeconomic area (OR = 1.8,95% CI = 1.3–2.5; 33% of schools). The highest PARs were small schools (PAR = 79%, 95%CI:76–82), higher Indigenous enrolments (PAR = 38%, 95%CI: 31–44) and lower attendance rate (PAR = 37%, 95%CI: 29–46). Conclusion This analysis suggests that initiatives to support schools that are smaller, with a higher proportion of Indigenous adolescents and lower attendance rates may contribute most to reducing the variation of HPV vaccination uptake observed at a school-level in these jurisdictions. Estimating population-level coverage at the school-level is useful to guide policy and prioritise resourcing to support school-based vaccination programs. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-022-13088-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Vujovich-Dunn
- University of New South Wales, Kirby Institute, Kensington, Australia.
| | - H Wand
- University of New South Wales, Kirby Institute, Kensington, Australia
| | - J M L Brotherton
- Australian Centre for the Prevention of Cervical Cancer, Population Health, East Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,University of Melbourne, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, Carlton, VIC, Australia
| | - H Gidding
- University of Sydney, Northern Clinical School, Sydney, Australia.,Women and Babies Research, Kolling Institute, Northern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia.,School of Population Health, University of New South Wales, Kensington, Australia.,National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance, Sydney, Australia
| | - J Sisnowski
- University of New South Wales, Kirby Institute, Kensington, Australia.,Australian National University, National Centre for Epidemiology & Population Health, Canberra, Australia
| | - R Lorch
- University of New South Wales, Kirby Institute, Kensington, Australia
| | - M Veitch
- Department of Health and Human Services, Tasmanian Government, Hobart, Australia
| | - V Sheppeard
- Communicable Diseases Branch, NSW Health, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia.,University of Sydney, Sydney School of Public Health, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - P Effler
- Communicable Disease Control Directorate, Department of Health, Western Australia, East Perth, Australia
| | - S R Skinner
- University of Sydney, Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney, Australia.,Children's Hospital Westmead, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Westmead, Australia
| | - A Venn
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Tasmanian, Australia
| | - C Davies
- University of Sydney, Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney, Australia.,Children's Hospital Westmead, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Westmead, Australia
| | - J Hocking
- University of Melbourne, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, Carlton, VIC, Australia
| | - L Whop
- Australian National University, National Centre for Epidemiology & Population Health, Canberra, Australia.,Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - J Leask
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance, Sydney, Australia.,University of Sydney, Sydney Nursing School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - K Canfell
- The Daffodil Centre, University of Sydney, A Joint Venture With Cancer Council NSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - L Sanci
- University of Melbourne, Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, Carlton, VIC, Australia
| | - M Smith
- The Daffodil Centre, University of Sydney, A Joint Venture With Cancer Council NSW, Sydney, Australia.,School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - M Kang
- University of Sydney, Westmead Clinical School, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - M Temple-Smith
- University of Melbourne, Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, Carlton, VIC, Australia
| | - M Kidd
- Flinders University, Southgate Institute for Health, Society and Equity, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia
| | - S Burns
- Curtin University, School of Population Health, Bentley, WA, Australia
| | - L Selvey
- University of Queensland, School of Public Health, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - D Meijer
- Immunisation Unit, Health Protection NSW, St Leonard's, New South Wales, Australia
| | - S Ennis
- Immunisation Unit, Health Protection NSW, St Leonard's, New South Wales, Australia
| | - C Thomson
- Communicable Disease Control Directorate, Department of Health, Western Australia, East Perth, Australia
| | - N Lane
- Department of Health and Human Services, Tasmanian Government, Hobart, Australia
| | - J Kaldor
- University of New South Wales, Kirby Institute, Kensington, Australia
| | - R Guy
- University of New South Wales, Kirby Institute, Kensington, Australia
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14
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Liba Z, Kraus J, Necas T, Necas J, Klugar M, Krsek P. Movement disorders, cerebral palsy and vaccination. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2022; 36:143-150. [PMID: 34979476 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2021.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
This review focused on vaccination in children with movement disorders, including cerebral palsy and the movement disorders triggered by vaccination in children with and without neurological disabilities. The following clinical questions were addressed: 1) Can children with movement disorders be vaccinated? 2) Can vaccination trigger movement disorders in children without neurological disabilities? 3) Can vaccination trigger movement disorders in children with neurological disabilities? and 4) Is there any consensus of care concerning vaccination in children with movement disorders? Following the PRISMA reporting guidelines, 1096 records were identified and 34 relevant papers were included. No evidence that vaccinations are contraindicated for children with movement disorders was noticed. Several reports of neurological adverse events, including movement disorders in children without neurological disabilities after various types of vaccination, were found. The reporting rates were low, the causality was controversial, and patient outcomes were mostly favourable. There was limited (if any) evidence in our search that any vaccination leads to any movement disorder exacerbation. Finally, no generally accepted consensus or standards of care concerning vaccination in patients with movement disorders were found. In summary, we found few precautions for vaccination in this group of patients and concluded that general best practice guidelines for immunization should be followed. In addition, influenza and pneumococcal vaccines are recommended because they can reduce morbidity and mortality in individuals severely affected by movement restrictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuzana Liba
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, V Uvalu 84, 15006, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Josef Kraus
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, V Uvalu 84, 15006, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Tomas Necas
- Department of Paediatrics, Tomas Bata Regional Hospital, Havlickovo nabrezi 600, 76001, Zlin, Czech Republic.
| | - Jiri Necas
- General Practitioner, Masarykovo namesti 1130, 76012, Vizovice, Czech Republic.
| | - Miloslav Klugar
- Czech National Centre for Evidence-Based Healthcare and Knowledge Translation, The Czech Republic Centre for Evidence-Based Healthcare, JBI Centre of Excellence, Masaryk University GRADE Centre, Institute of Biostatistics and Analyses, Masaryk University, 625 00, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Krsek
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, V Uvalu 84, 15006, Prague, Czech Republic.
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15
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Dougall A, Molina G, Mac Giolla Phadraig C. Covid-19 vaccination among people with disability-Statement from the iADH scientific committee. SPECIAL CARE IN DENTISTRY 2021; 41:655-657. [PMID: 34652828 PMCID: PMC8661773 DOI: 10.1111/scd.12667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alison Dougall
- Department of Public and Child Dental Health, International Association for Disability and Oral Health, Dublin Dental University Hospital and Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Gustavo Molina
- Department of Special Care Dentistry, International Association for Disability and Oral Health, The Dental School, Universidad Católica de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Caoimhin Mac Giolla Phadraig
- Department of Public and Child Dental Health, International Association for Disability and Oral Health, Dublin Dental University Hospital and Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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16
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Weise JC, Srasuebkul P, Trollor JN. Potentially preventable hospitalisations of people with intellectual disability in New South Wales. Med J Aust 2021; 215:31-36. [PMID: 34028026 DOI: 10.5694/mja2.51088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine rates of potentially preventable hospitalisation of people with intellectual disability in New South Wales, and compare them with those for the NSW population. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. SETTING Potentially preventable hospitalisations in NSW, as defined by the National Healthcare Agreement progress indicator 18, 1 July 2001 - 30 June 2015. PARTICIPANTS Data collected in a retrospective data linkage study of 92 542 people with intellectual disability in NSW; potentially preventable hospitalisations data for NSW published by HealthStats NSW. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Age-adjusted rates of potentially preventable hospitalisation by group (people with intellectual disability, NSW population), medical condition type (acute, chronic, vaccine-preventable), and medical condition. RESULTS The annual age-standardised rate for people with intellectual disability ranged between 5286 and 6301 per 100 000 persons, and for the NSW population between 1278 and 1511 per 100 000 persons; the rate ratio (RR) ranged between 3.5 (95% CI, 3.3-3.7) in 2014-15 and 4.5 (95% CI, 4.2-4.9) in 2002-03. The difference was greatest for admissions with acute (RR range: 5.3 [95% CI, 4.9-5.7] in 2014-15 to 8.1 [95% CI, 7.4-8.8] in 2002-03) and vaccine-preventable conditions (RR range: 2.1 [95% CI, 1.6-3.0] in 2007-08 to 3.4 [95% CI, 2.2-5.2] in 2004-05). By specific condition, the highest age-standardised rate was for admissions with convulsions and epilepsy (all years, 2567 per 100 000 population; v NSW population: RR, 22.2; 95% CI, 21.3-23.1). CONCLUSION Age-standardised rates of potentially preventable hospitalisation are higher for people with intellectual disability than for the general population. The reasons for these differences should be investigated, and strategies for averting potentially preventable hospitalisation developed.
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17
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Karlovic H, Franjic D, Arapovic J. The vaccination rate among children with nonprogressive neurodevelopmental disorders in Bosnia and Herzegovina: A single centre experience. J Pediatr Rehabil Med 2021; 14:477-484. [PMID: 34420991 DOI: 10.3233/prm-200678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study is to determine the factors influencing the decrease of the vaccination rate among children with nonprogressive neurodevelopmental disorders in Bosnia and Herzegovina. METHODS This study included 149 parents of children with nonprogressive neurodevelopmental disorders. The children were rehabilitated at the University Clinical Hospital Mostar, from October 2017 to February 2019. RESULTS The vaccination rate of children with nonprogressive neurodevelopmental disorders was 34.9% (P < 0.001). Based on the results of this study, physicians were the most common source of information on vaccines and vaccination procedures for parents (70.3%), whereas the media was rarely used as the source of the information (33%) (P < 0.001). Of the cases, 58.4% accepted the opinion of the pediatrician (P = 0.041). The vaccination of children was postponed on the physician's recommendation in 87.6% of the cases (P < 0.001). Among healthcare professionals, neuropediatricians or neurophysiatrists (P = 0.023), together with pediatricians (P < 0.001), most often suggested postponing the vaccination. CONCLUSION Overall, this study showed that the majority of children with nonprogressive neurodevelopmental disorders were unvaccinated. The majority of the parents trusted the physicians' opinion on vaccination. Neuropediatricians and neurophysiatrists most often postponed the regular vaccination of children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Karlovic
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Mostar, Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Damir Franjic
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Mostar, Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Jurica Arapovic
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Mostar, Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina.,Department of Infectious Diseases, University Clinical Hospital Mostar, Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
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