Knowledge, Attitudes, Awareness, and Factors Influencing Influenza Vaccination Uptake During Pregnancy

A recent study evaluated the knowledge, attitudes, awareness, facilitators, and barriers to influenza vaccination uptake during pregnancy in urban Pune.

This cross-sectional study included 500 women––62 pregnant and 438 postpartum––attending a tertiary-care hospital. Data was gathered on demographics, general influenza knowledge, attitudes towards vaccination, and awareness of the risks and benefits of influenza vaccine.

Among the participants, 44.6% (223/500) received the influenza vaccine during (their current) pregnancy; only 2.7% had received it during previous pregnancies. Awareness of the vaccine's safety during pregnancy was low (19%). Of note, 11.2% of the participants did not consent to maternal vaccination; those informed by healthcare providers were significantly more likely to be vaccinated. Additionally, previous influenza vaccination and knowledge of influenza and its complications enhanced vaccine uptake.

From the findings, it was inferred that the key barriers to vaccination were poor awareness (68.6%) and incomplete information. Healthcare professionals play a critical role in influencing vaccination decisions. Although influenza vaccine uptake in Pune has improved, coverage remains lower than in other endemic regions. Addressing common misconceptions through public outreach and encouraging healthcare providers to recommend the vaccine are warranted for increasing influenza vaccination rates.

Source: Shaikh H, Undale V, Pardeshi A, et al. Indian J Obstet Gynecol Res. 2024;11(3):457-464