Influenza Vaccination of High-Risk Children: A Survey of Three Physician Groups

Abstract

To determine the variability in physician knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours in relation to influenza vaccination of children. A 17-item cross-sectional questionnaire, with follow-up mailings to non-responders, was mailed to a random sample of 100 family physicians and 100 community pediatricians within Metropolitan Toronto and all 130 subspecialists at The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto. Of 315 eligible physicians, 243 (77%) responded. Of the three groups, community pediatricians were more likely than either family physicians or subspecialists, to recommend vaccination for all but one of the high-risk conditions. Pediatricians (54%) were also the most likely to use active strategies to contact families of high-risk children compared with family physicians and subspecialists (both 23%). Only 44% of all physicians were themselves vaccinated against influenza. Influenza vaccination is recommended by most physicians; however, the responsibility for vaccination appears to fall to those in the community. Physician education plus further research and a review of provincial strategies for improving vaccination are needed.