Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy in Clinical Practice

Pediatr Ann. 2018 Sep 1;47(9):e366-e370. doi: 10.3928/19382359-20180809-01.

Abstract

Vaccines have had a profound impact on public health; however, parents are increasingly refusing or delaying vaccines for their children. Population-based studies have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of vaccines. Pediatricians should be well informed about vaccine development, safety, and efficacy to inspire parental confidence in vaccines. Systemic challenges in discussing and providing immunizations exist. Discussions about immunizations may be lengthy and time spent discussing immunizations is not routinely reimbursed. Adolescents may be inadequately immunized because they do not routinely present for preventive health visits. Routine immunizations should be offered and discussed at sick visits, particularly for adolescents. Improving immunization rates requires a multifaceted approach. [Pediatr Ann. 2018;47(9):e366-e370.].

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Child, Preschool
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Parents / psychology*
  • Patient Acceptance of Health Care / psychology
  • Patient Education as Topic
  • Pediatrics / methods*
  • Professional-Family Relations*
  • Vaccination Refusal / psychology*