BackgroundVaccination against influenza and pertussis in pregnancy can reduce the significant morbidity and mortality associated with these infections. Despite this, there is poor uptake of both vaccines in pregnancy.AimTo explore women’s perception of vaccination in pregnancy and thereby determine the reasons behind such low vaccination rates.Design & settingThis is a qualitative study undertaken at a large maternity hospital.MethodSeventeen post-partum women completed a semi-structured interview discussing vaccination. They were recruited from a quantitative study looking at vaccination rates in pregnancy. The interview transcripts were discussed among three researchers and underwent thematic analysis.ResultsThree themes emerged. The first theme explored the influencing factors that shaped the women’s decision to vaccinate in pregnancy. The recommendation of a healthcare provider was the most important influencing factor for this study's cohort of women. The second theme highlighted the deficiency in knowledge women had regarding vaccine safety. The last theme related to the pertussis vaccine, and the reluctance of healthcare providers to discuss and offer this vaccine in pregnancy.ConclusionThe qualitative approach gives voice to the thoughts and concerns of women as they make the complex decision to vaccinate in pregnancy. Clinicians must be cognizant of the important role they play in advising women to vaccinate in pregnancy. They must advise women that the vaccine is safe and address any of their concerns. Lastly, a message on vaccine safety should be included in future public health campaigns to promote vaccination in pregnancy.

BackgroundInfluenza during pregnancy is a potentially life threatening illness. There are limited data on influenza vaccination uptake and determinants of uptake in Irish obstetric populations.AimTo determine the uptake of influenza vaccination during pregnancy; determinants of vaccination uptake; knowledge, attitudes, and concerns of postnatal women; and knowledge and attitudes of healthcare professionals (HCPs) surrounding vaccination.Design & settingA quantitative study of postnatal women attending the Rotunda Hospital, a tertiary referral maternity hospital in Dublin, Ireland. A separate quantitative study conducted by the North Dublin City GP Training Programme surveyed GPs, pharmacists, and Rotunda Hospital clinical staff.MethodA paper-based survey was distributed to postnatal women. HCPs completed the survey via the online tool Survey Monkey.Results330 patient surveys were disseminated, with a 60.0% response rate. Of 198 responders, 109 (55.1%) were vaccinated against influenza. Non-professionals were less likely to be vaccinated (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.29, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.09 to 0.89). Vaccination in previous pregnancy (aOR 5.2, 95% CI = 1.69 to 15.62) and information from an HCP were strongly associated with vaccination (aOR 12.8, 95% CI = 2.65 to 62.5). There was a 20.2% (n = 1180) response rate among HCPs. More GPs felt that it was their role to discuss vaccination (92.9%; n = 676), and offer to vaccinate women (91.7%; n = 666) than any other HCP.ConclusionProvision of information about the importance of vaccination against influenza and pertussis during pregnancy by HCPs and their consistent recommendations in support of vaccination were key determinants of vaccine uptake during pregnancy. The sociodemographic determinants of a woman’s vaccination status should be addressed in health promotion campaigns. Education of HCPs may address knowledge gaps surrounding vaccination.

BackgroundInfluenza infection during pregnancy can lead to significant maternal morbidity. There are limited data on influenza vaccination uptake and determinants of uptake in Irish obstetric populations.AimThe objectives of this study were to determine: the uptake of influenza vaccination during pregnancy; the determinants of vaccination uptake; knowledge, attitudes and concerns of postnatal women surrounding vaccination during pregnancy; and the recommendations of healthcare workers. Pertussis vaccination uptake was also determined.MethodA standardised 24 item questionnaire was distributed to postnatal women between January and June 2016. Questions focused on maternal characteristics, vaccination status, sources of information, and reasons for receiving / declining the vaccine. The role of the healthcare professional in recommending and offering vaccination was addressed.Results330 surveys were disseminated, there was a 60% response rate. Of the 198 surveys, 109 (55.1%) respondents were vaccinated against Influenza and 64 (32.3%) against Pertussis. Women in the professional/manager/employer socioeconomic group were more likely to be vaccinated (aOR 3.4; 95% CI 1.11–10.42). There was a strong association between vaccination uptake and receiving information during pregnancy (aOR 12.8; 95% CI 2.65–62.5) and receiving the vaccine in a previous pregnancy (aOR 5.15; 95% CI 1.70–15.62). Unvaccinated women had concerns about the harm it may cause to their baby (53%; n=30) and concerns about side effects for themselves (55%; n=33).ConclusionA key determinant of vaccination was provision of information and a recommendation to vaccinate by a healthcare professional. Uncertainty over safety of the vaccine was evident. Consistent patient education by healthcare professionals could increase vaccine uptake.