1152-P: COVID-19 Vaccination Status and Attitudes of Adolescents with T1D and Their Caregivers

Abstract

People with type 1 diabetes (T1D) have an increased risk for adverse COVID-19 outcomes, but few studies have explored the current rates of vaccination in families of youth with T1D. We examined the vaccination status and attitudes toward the vaccine in this high-risk population. We conducted semi-structured interviews with adolescents with T1D (n=12; mean age =14.2 ± 5.9 years; 25% female; 75% non-Hispanic White; mean HbA1c =9.2± 1.9%) and maternal caregivers (n=19; mean age =42.9 ± 5.9 years) participating in an ongoing clinical trial in the Southeastern United States. Interviews were conducted from May-November 2022, after vaccine approval for children ≥5 years. Participants were asked how COVID-19 affected diabetes management, including an optional question about their household's vaccination status. Interviews were transcribed and coded, establishing inter-reliability (κ=.78). The vaccination question was answered by 71% of adolescents and 95% of caregivers. More than half of adolescents (58%) reported being unvaccinated, with many not viewing the vaccine as an immediate necessity. Most inoculated teens (60%) reported getting vaccinated because of parental influence. Among caregivers, 32% reported being unvaccinated. They cited the vaccine's novelty and limited data on long-term side effects, particularly for those with T1D, as reasons for their hesitancy. Many also doubted their child's risk for adverse outcomes, so they did not see the vaccine as crucial. Most immunized caregivers (62%) recalled receiving the vaccine within a few months after its approval. They reported having faith in the vaccine's effectiveness, especially when encouraged by medical professionals, as motivation for getting vaccinated. Our findings highlight the persistently low vaccination rates among youth with T1D and the importance of caregivers’ trust and buy-in. These results indicate the need for focused education and public health messaging to promote vaccination in families of children with T1D. Disclosure N.Okonkwo: None. S.S.Jaser: None. Funding National Institutes of Health (1R01DK115545-S1)