The coverage of influenza and pneumococcal vaccination among kidney transplant recipients and waiting list patients: A cross-sectional survey in Denmark.

Abstract

To characterize level and predictors of influenza and pneumococcal vaccine uptake among Danish kidney transplant recipients (KTR) and kidney transplant waiting list patients (WLP). A cross-sectional survey based on self-reported vaccine uptake including WLP and KTR≤1½ years post transplantation. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses identifying factors associated with influenza vaccine uptake in the latest season were performed. A total of 220 participants were included in the study, 54% KTR and 46% WLP. Self-reported influenza vaccine uptake in the latest season was overall 41.8%. Uptake of influenza vaccine on any prior season apart from the latest season was 53.2% and significantly higher among WLP than KTR (P=.007). Pneumococcal vaccine uptake was only 4% overall. The only factor positively associated with influenza vaccine uptake in the latest season was any prior influenza vaccine uptake (OR 5.79, CI95 2.44-13.76) (P<.001). Recommendations given by other persons (non-physician) were negatively associated with receiving the influenza vaccination in the latest season (OR 0.34, CI95 0.13-0.92) (P=.03). Reasons for not being vaccinated were primarily lack of information, perception of own good health, and fear of adverse reactions. Influenza and pneumococcal vaccine uptakes were suboptimal among Danish WLP and KTR. Increased awareness about guidelines and physicians´ education are warranted.