Parental reasons for non-uptake of influenza vaccination in young at-risk groups: a qualitative study

Background Uptake rates of influenza vaccination in young at-risk groups in primary care (UK) are known to be poor.

Aim To explore parental reasons for non-uptake of influenza vaccination in young at-risk groups. The study hypothesis was that exploration of parental reasons for non-uptake may reveal important barriers to an effective influenza vaccination programme.

Design and setting Thematic analysis of a questionnaire survey with interview follow-up at a single general practice in Inverness, Scotland.

Method Parents of children identified as being in an at-risk group for influenza vaccination but who had not received vaccination were sent questionnaires and offered the opportunity to take part in a follow-up interview.

Results Several key themes emerged, including uncertainty about the indication for vaccination, issues of choice, challenges with access, lack of parental priority, and issues relating to health beliefs.

Conclusion Any attempt to improve the vaccination rate needs to address the range of decision-making processes undertaken by parents and children. Better and more tailored information and educational delivery to parents, patients, and healthcare providers may lead to an increase in the rates of influenza vaccination uptake in at-risk children. Access is a barrier described by some parents.