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Australian perceptions of pertussis and vaccine preventable disease in the setting of asthma and COPD

Introduction: Recent data suggest there is significant room for improvement in vaccine coverage rates among Australian adults. It has further been shown that patients with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are susceptible to infection with, and experience poorer outcomes following diagnosis of pertussis. Aims and Objectives: Measure and track perceptions of pertussis and vaccine preventable disease and understand barriers to the use of these vaccines in individuals with chronic respiratory disease. Methods: Awareness and attitudes towards vaccination were assessed through completion of a nationally representative online survey of Australian General Practitioners (GPs), conducted from 2015-2018. Results: GPs provided vaccination advice to a median of 76 patients per month (range 60-86), representing approximately 10% of total adult patient load. The top three vaccines discussed with patients were influenza, tetanus and shingles. Less than half of all GPs discussed pertussis vaccination with their patients. In those instances where pertussis vaccination was discussed, 69% were related to a patient/family member expecting a baby. Despite being recognized as a risk factor for contracting pertussis, vaccination management of chronic respiratory disease only occurred in 5% of encounters. Conclusions: Despite the availability and broad use of pertussis containing vaccines in the setting of pregnancy and infants, use of these vaccines in Australian adults remains limited. These findings highlight a significant opportunity to improve awareness and uptake of pertussis containing vaccines in individuals with chronic respiratory disease.