Factors Associated with Influenza Vaccination among Children Aged 6 Months to 2 Years

Abstract

         Influenza caused by influenza virus is the leading cause of acute respiratory tract infections. Children aged 6 months to 2 years are at risk of infection and have a chance of serious complications and death. Getting vaccinated against influenza can prevent infection and complications. This cross–sectional research aimed to study the vaccine coverage and factors associated with vaccination against influenza in children. The self–administered questionnaires were collected from 150 parents of children aged 6 months to 2 years who visited Rom Klao Primary Care Cluster, Sakon Nakhon hospital from August 15th to September 30th, 2020. Data were analyzed using the descriptive statistics. The association between influenza vaccination and factors were analyzed using the multiple logistic regression statistics.

           The results showed that the coverage of influenza vaccination was 36.7%. The factors associated with influenza vaccination were the parents history of influenza vaccination (Adj.OR = 7.40, 95% CI = 2.60–21.40), children history of influenza illness (Adj.OR = 29.48, 95% CI = 2.07–420.34), high perception level of influenza risk (Adj.OR = 17.09, 95% CI = 3.05–95.72) and high perception level of benefit of influenza vaccination (Adj.OR = 4.99, 95% CI = 1.59–15.68).

          In conclusion, the coverage of influenza vaccination among children aged 6 months to 2 years was lower than specified criteria. The parents should be encouraged to perceive the risk of influenza and benefit of influenza vaccination because these are important factors in increasing the influenza vaccination in children. ผ

          Keywords: Children, Influenza, Vaccine, Health belief model