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Physician Knowledge and Perspectives Regarding Influenza and Influenza Vaccination

Background: Recent studies have demonstrated that healthy children younger than 24 months of age are at risk for influenza-associated hospitalization and influenza related complications. In light of this, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention changed their recommendation for influenza vaccination for the 2004-05 season to include universal vaccination for all healthy children 6-23 months of age. Methods: A self-administered survey was distributed to a random sampling of family practitioners and pediatricians in Chicago, IL. Questions were asked regarding demographics, current use of influenza vaccines, and knowledge regarding influenza vaccines and influenza infection in children. Answers were scored as correct based on published literature and AAP/ACIP recommendations. Results: During the 2002-03 influenza season, physician-directed recommendation for influenza vaccination and physician perceived use for both healthy children and children with a high-risk medical condition were both low. The majority of physicians were not aware of the severity of influenza infection in young children, could not correctly identify all contraindications to receiving vaccination, did not know which children require two vaccinations, and were not aware of the complications of influenza in children. Conclusions: To achieve the goal of universal influenza vaccination coverage for healthy children 6-23 months of age, physicians will need a greater understanding of the severity of influenza illness in this age group coupled with an increased knowledge of indications for vaccine administration.