Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of healthcare providers in the country of Georgia regarding influenza vaccinations for pregnant women

Publication date: Available online 20 October 2016
Source:Vaccine
Author(s): Mariam Dvalishvili, Darejan Mesxishvili, Maia Butsashvili, George Kamkamidze, Deborah McFarland, Robert A. Bednarczyk
ObjectiveTo document knowledge, attitudes, and practices of Georgian obstetrician-gynecologists concerning influenza infection and vaccination during pregnancy.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study of obstetrician-gynecologists in 8 cities in the country of Georgian, from June to July, 2015, using an anonymous, self-administered, written survey. Collected data included demographics; knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to influenza vaccination during pregnancy; perceptions of influenza infection in pregnancy; perceived barriers to influenza vaccination during pregnancy; and willingness to receive education about influenza infection and vaccination during pregnancy.ResultsA total of 278 obstetrician-gynecologists completed surveys. Most physicians perceived influenza to be a serious infectious disease (88%) and that pregnant women are more susceptible to it than the general population. Only 43% of physicians reported recommending influenza vaccination during pregnancy; 18% reported vaccinating any pregnant patients during the last influenza season. Most (75%) physicians reported a perception that there is insufficient evidence supporting influenza vaccination during pregnancy. Most (93%) were receptive to receiving additional education on maternal vaccination.ConclusionsGeorgian physicians are hesitant to vaccinate pregnant women, but are receptive to education about maternal vaccination. Future educational outreach to Georgian physicians could reduce concerns about maternal vaccination, potentially increasing influenza vaccination among pregnant Georgian women.



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