Parental knowledge of and attitudes toward LYMErix (recombinant Osp--a lyme vaccine).

Abstract

come major public health concern in many communities. A recombinant outer surface protein A vaccine (LYMErix) was licensed by the Food and Drug Administration in December 1998 for use in individuals between 15 and 70 years of age. Studies in children and adolescents between the ages of 4 and 18 years of age suggest LYMErix will also be safe and efficacious in this age group.' Despite a great deal of publicity surrounding Lyme disease and LYMErix, there are little published data regarding parental knowledge of Lyme disease or their attitudes towards the Lyme vaccine. This study was undertaken to determine what factors might influence a parent's decision to vaccinate their child, if LYMErix is licensed for use in younger children, and to better understand the public's perception of Lyme disease.