Differences between influenza and pertussis vaccination uptake in pregnancy: a multi-center survey study in Italy

Background: A suboptimal maternal vaccination coverage in 2017-18 has been reported in Italy. The study aims were to (i) assess changes in maternal influenza and tetanus, diphtheria and acellular pertussis vaccination coverage during 2018-19 influenza season compared to the previous season (ii) estimate influenza vaccine coverage among maternal care providers (MCPs) and (iii) explore the characteristics of vaccine delivery to pregnant women. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey among pregnant women and MCPs about influenza and pertussis immunization during pregnancy. We also collected information regarding prenatal care characteristics and vaccine delivery among four centers in Italy. Results: We recruited 483 pregnant women and 452 MCPs. The influenza and pertussis vaccine uptake among pregnant women for the season 2018-19 was 14.9% and 60.9%, respectively. MCPs' influenza vaccine uptake was 33.6%. Knowing that the flu vaccine was safe for mothers and their infants and being vaccinated in the previous influenza season were associated with higher vaccine uptake. Regarding pertussis, being a housewife was associated to lower vaccine uptake, while knowing the vaccine is effective and safe for mothers and newborns were associated with higher pertussis vaccine uptake. The single most important factor associated to higher coverage of both influenza and pertussis vaccines was receiving a health-care provider's vaccine advice. Most pregnant women (69.4%) stated that they preferred to be vaccinated in their same prenatal care setting. Conclusions: Receiving a health-care provider's vaccine advice and the availability of vaccines during prenatal care visits might improve vaccination coverage among pregnant women.

Automated summary

This study assessed the maternal vaccination coverage in Italy during the 2018-19 influenza season. The low coverage was associated with factors such as knowledge about vaccine safety, previous vaccine uptake, and healthcare provider advice. Improving vaccine coverage among pregnant women may be achieved by healthcare provider recommendations and availability of vaccines during prenatal care visits.