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Keller VL, Klein CC, Wingler L, Blom TJ, Welge JA, Fornari VM, Higdon C, Crystal S, Patino LR, Correll CU, DelBello MP. Predictors of COVID-19 vaccine uptake among youth with bipolar disorder spectrum disorders and their caregivers. J Affect Disord 2024; 365:400-405. [PMID: 39147152 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.08.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about rates of COVID-19 vaccine uptake among youth with bipolar spectrum disorders (BSD). As such, the aim of this study is to assess rates and predictors of COVID-19 vaccine uptake among youth with BSD and their caregivers in the United States. METHODS Youth and their main caregiver were recruited from a large pragmatic study cohort. Youth who were aged 8-22 at the time of this data collection, had a bipolar-spectrum disorder diagnosis, had overweight or obesity, and were treated with a second-generation antipsychotic were invited to participate in an online survey and interview assessing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. RESULTS A total of 453 surveys and 341 interviews were completed 07/2021-05/2022 by youth and their caregivers. Sixty-seven percent of caregivers and 63 % of youth reported receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. Vaccine uptake rates among youth and caregivers were highly correlated. Predictors of vaccine uptake among youth were older age and living in the Northeast Region of the United States. Predictors of caregiver vaccine uptake were male sex, higher annual household income and not having to quarantine due to COVID-19. LIMITATIONS The sample was small and not a full representation of a population with bipolar-spectrum disorders therefore, the results may not be generalizable. The study design and statistical method do not allow for causal inferences to be made. CONCLUSIONS These findings may aid in targeting interventions to maximize COVID-19 and other vaccine uptake in youth with bipolar disorders and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria L Keller
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, USA.
| | - Christina C Klein
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, USA
| | - Lauren Wingler
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, USA
| | - Thomas J Blom
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Welge
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, USA
| | - Victor M Fornari
- Department of Psychiatry, The Zucker Hillside Hospital, Northwell Health, Glen Oaks, NY, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Molecular Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA
| | - Claudine Higdon
- Department of Psychiatry, The Zucker Hillside Hospital, Northwell Health, Glen Oaks, NY, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Molecular Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA
| | - Stephen Crystal
- Institute for Health, Health Care Policy, and Aging Research, Rutgers, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - L Rodrigo Patino
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, USA
| | - Christoph U Correll
- Department of Psychiatry, The Zucker Hillside Hospital, Northwell Health, Glen Oaks, NY, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Molecular Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA; Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany; German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), Partner site Berlin, Germany
| | - Melissa P DelBello
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, USA
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Ashrafun L, Uddin MJ, Debnath D. Caregiver Narratives of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Exploring Symptom Recognition, Diagnosis, and Interventions. J Autism Dev Disord 2024:10.1007/s10803-024-06440-0. [PMID: 38907780 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-024-06440-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
The diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) poses myriad challenges for families, yet there is a scarcity of research focusing on their journey from recognizing initial anomalies to implementing interventions. This qualitative study examines how caregivers in Sylhet, Bangladesh, perceive and manage ASD in their children, including early symptom identification, diagnostic processes, and intervention strategies. Data for this study were collected through semi-structured interviews, case studies, and observations involving 22 caregivers of children with ASD. Participants were chosen using purposive-convenience sampling, and data collection continued until interpretive saturation was achieved. The study findings unveil nuanced caregiver perceptions of ASD causation, influenced by sociocultural factors, religious beliefs, and genetic predispositions. These determinants wield significant influence over treatment modalities and the child's developmental trajectory. Importantly, the prevalence of supernatural beliefs and myths often surpasses biomedical explanations, highlighting gaps in awareness, educational outreach, and understanding of ASD. Nevertheless, religious beliefs and rituals concurrently serve as adaptive coping mechanisms, offering solace amidst uncertainty. Furthermore, a striking observation emerges: despite parents frequently identifying anomalies in their children within a 24-month, a substantial delay of 3 to 5 years persists between initial symptom recognition and formal diagnosis. This delay predominantly stems from caregiver hesitancy driven by societal stigmatization, familial dismissal attitudes, and limited diagnostic and specialized services. This study highlights the challenging diagnostic journey and caregiving for children with ASD in Bangladesh, stressing the need for systemic improvements in services, awareness, and research to enhance the well-being of individuals with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laila Ashrafun
- Department of Sociology, Shahjalal University of Science & Technology, Sylhet, Bangladesh
| | - Mohammad Jasim Uddin
- Department of Sociology, Shahjalal University of Science & Technology, Sylhet, Bangladesh.
| | - Dipa Debnath
- Department of Sociology, Shahjalal University of Science & Technology, Sylhet, Bangladesh
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3
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Zeeb H, Schüz B, Schultz T, Pigeot I. [Developments in the digitalization of public health since 2020 : Examples from the Leibniz ScienceCampus Digital Public Health Bremen]. Bundesgesundheitsblatt Gesundheitsforschung Gesundheitsschutz 2024; 67:260-267. [PMID: 38197925 DOI: 10.1007/s00103-023-03827-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Digital public health has received a significant boost in recent years, especially due to the demands associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. In this report, we provide an overview of the developments in digitalization in the field of public health in Germany since 2020 and illustrate these with examples from the Leibniz ScienceCampus Digital Public Health Bremen (LSC DiPH).The following topics are central: How do digital survey methods as well as digital biomarkers and artificial intelligence methods shape modern epidemiology and prevention research? What is the status of digitalization in public health offices? Which approaches to health economics evaluation of digital public health interventions have been utilized so far? What is the status of training and further education in digital public health?The first years of the Leibniz ScienceCampus Digital Public Health Bremen (LSC DiPH) were also strongly influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic. Repeated population-based digital surveys of the LSC indicated an increase in use of health apps in the population, for example, in applications to support physical activity. The COVID-19-pandemic has also shown that the digitalization of public health enhances the risk of misinformation and disinformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hajo Zeeb
- Leibniz-Institut für Präventionsforschung und Epidemiologie-BIPS, Achterstr. 30, 28359, Bremen, Deutschland.
- Leibniz-WissenschaftsCampus Digital Public Health Bremen, Bremen, Deutschland.
| | - Benjamin Schüz
- Leibniz-WissenschaftsCampus Digital Public Health Bremen, Bremen, Deutschland
- Institut für Public Health und Pflegewissenschaften, Universität Bremen, Bremen, Deutschland
| | - Tanja Schultz
- Leibniz-WissenschaftsCampus Digital Public Health Bremen, Bremen, Deutschland
- Cognitive Systems Lab, Universität Bremen, Bremen, Deutschland
| | - Iris Pigeot
- Leibniz-Institut für Präventionsforschung und Epidemiologie-BIPS, Achterstr. 30, 28359, Bremen, Deutschland
- Leibniz-WissenschaftsCampus Digital Public Health Bremen, Bremen, Deutschland
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4
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Lyons BA, Mérola V, Reifler J, Spälti AK, Stedtnitz C, Stoeckel F. When experts matter: Variations in consensus messaging for vaccine and genetically modified organism safety. PUBLIC UNDERSTANDING OF SCIENCE (BRISTOL, ENGLAND) 2024; 33:210-226. [PMID: 37596933 DOI: 10.1177/09636625231188594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
Does consensus messaging about contested science issues influence perceptions of consensus and/or personal beliefs? This question remains open, particularly for topics other than climate change and samples outside the United States. In a Spanish national sample (N = 5087), we use preregistered survey experiments to examine differential efficacy of variations in consensus messaging for vaccines and genetically modified organisms. We find that no variation of consensus messaging influences vaccine beliefs. For genetically modified organisms, about which misperceptions are particularly prevalent in our sample, we find that scientific consensus messaging increases perception of consensus and personal belief that genetically modified organisms are safe, and decreases support for a ban. Increasing degree of consensus did not have consistent effects. Although individual differences (e.g. a conspiratorial worldview) predict these genetically modified organism beliefs, they do not undercut consensus message effects. While we observe relatively modest effect sizes, consensus messaging may be able to improve the accuracy of beliefs about some contentious topics.
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Montero DA, Vidal RM, Velasco J, Carreño LJ, Torres JP, Benachi O. MA, Tovar-Rosero YY, Oñate AA, O'Ryan M. Two centuries of vaccination: historical and conceptual approach and future perspectives. Front Public Health 2024; 11:1326154. [PMID: 38264254 PMCID: PMC10803505 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1326154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Over the past two centuries, vaccines have been critical for the prevention of infectious diseases and are considered milestones in the medical and public health history. The World Health Organization estimates that vaccination currently prevents approximately 3.5-5 million deaths annually, attributed to diseases such as diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, influenza, and measles. Vaccination has been instrumental in eradicating important pathogens, including the smallpox virus and wild poliovirus types 2 and 3. This narrative review offers a detailed journey through the history and advancements in vaccinology, tailored for healthcare workers. It traces pivotal milestones, beginning with the variolation practices in the early 17th century, the development of the first smallpox vaccine, and the continuous evolution and innovation in vaccine development up to the present day. We also briefly review immunological principles underlying vaccination, as well as the main vaccine types, with a special mention of the recently introduced mRNA vaccine technology. Additionally, we discuss the broad benefits of vaccines, including their role in reducing morbidity and mortality, and in fostering socioeconomic development in communities. Finally, we address the issue of vaccine hesitancy and discuss effective strategies to promote vaccine acceptance. Research, collaboration, and the widespread acceptance and use of vaccines are imperative for the continued success of vaccination programs in controlling and ultimately eradicating infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A. Montero
- Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
- Centro Integrativo de Biología y Química Aplicada, Universidad Bernardo O'Higgins, Santiago, Chile
| | - Roberto M. Vidal
- Programa de Microbiología y Micología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Instituto Milenio de Inmunología e Inmunoterapia, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Juliana Velasco
- Unidad de Paciente Crítico, Clínica Hospital del Profesor, Santiago, Chile
- Programa de Formación de Especialista en Medicina de Urgencia, Universidad Andrés Bello, Santiago, Chile
| | - Leandro J. Carreño
- Instituto Milenio de Inmunología e Inmunoterapia, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Programa de Inmunología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Juan P. Torres
- Departamento de Pediatría y Cirugía Pediátrica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Manuel A. Benachi O.
- Área de Biotecnología, Tecnoacademia Neiva, Servicio Nacional de Aprendizaje, Regional Huila, Neiva, Colombia
| | - Yenifer-Yadira Tovar-Rosero
- Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Exactas y de la Educación, Universidad del Cauca, Popayán, Colombia
| | - Angel A. Oñate
- Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Miguel O'Ryan
- Programa de Microbiología y Micología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Al-Eitan LN, ElMotasem MFM, Khair IY, Alahmad SZ. Vaccinomics: Paving the Way for Personalized Immunization. Curr Pharm Des 2024; 30:1031-1047. [PMID: 38898820 DOI: 10.2174/0113816128280417231204085137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Vaccines are one of the most important medical advancements in human history. They have been successfully used to control and limit the spread of many of the lethal diseases that have plagued us, such as smallpox and polio. Previous vaccine design methodologies were based on the model of "isolate-inactivateinject", which amounts to giving the same vaccine dose to everyone susceptible to infection. In recent years, the importance of how the host genetic background alters vaccine response necessitated the introduction of vaccinomics, which is aimed at studying the variability of vaccine efficacy by associating genetic variability and immune response to vaccination. Despite the rapid developments in variant screening, data obtained from association studies is often inconclusive and cannot be used to guide the new generation of vaccines. This review aims to compile the polymorphisms in HLA and immune system genes and examine the link with their immune response to vaccination. The compiled data can be used to guide the development of new strategies for vaccination for vulnerable groups. Overall, the highly polymorphic HLA locus had the highest correlation with vaccine response variability for most of the studied vaccines, and it was linked to variation in multiple stages of the immune response to the vaccines for both humoral and cellular immunity. Designing new vaccine technologies and immunization regiments to accommodate for this variability is an important step for reaching a vaccinomics-based approach to vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laith Naser Al-Eitan
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan
| | - Moh'd Fahmi Munib ElMotasem
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan
| | - Iliya Yacoub Khair
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan
| | - Saif Zuhair Alahmad
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan
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7
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Zastawna B, Milewska A, Załuska R, Kozłowski R, Zastawna M, Marczak M. Analysis of Parents' Attitudes and Knowledge toward Immunization and How These Factors Influence Their Decisions to Vaccinate Their Children against Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:1755. [PMID: 37893473 PMCID: PMC10608555 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59101755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Background and objectives: Vaccination hesitancy is a growing problem associated with decreasing chances for the elimination of vaccine-preventable diseases through immunization. This research was conducted to learn about parents' attitudes toward vaccination, particularly against HPV, in the context of their beliefs and fears regarding immunization and the impact of these views on their children's vaccination decisions. An additional goal was to determine what views or convictions most often lead to the phenomenon of delaying or refusing vaccinations, especially HPV vaccines, in the surveyed community. Materials and Methods: An online questionnaire was conducted in which parents marked how they vaccinated their children with mandatory vaccinations and whether they took the opportunity to protect their children with additional vaccinations, including HPV and COVID-19. Respondents also marked the extent to which they agreed with the statements, regarding the safety of vaccinations, doubts about them, as well as popular anti-vaccine myths. Results: A total of 250 questionnaires were collected with data on the immunization of 425 children. Associations between specific beliefs and vaccine abstention were established. The most motivating factor for vaccination against HPV was the parent's awareness that the virus HP is the cause of cancer. The most inhibiting factor was respondent's compliance with the opinion that HPV vaccines can affect the child's sexual activity. Conclusions: The results indicate that information campaigns are needed, especially focusing on vaccine safety and the regularity and transparency of monitoring adverse effects. The obtained results will be used to create educational interventions against vaccination hesitancy more adapted to local conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beata Zastawna
- Department of Management and Logistics in Health Care, Medical University of Lodz, 90-131 Lodz, Poland; (R.Z.); (R.K.)
| | - Anna Milewska
- Department of Statistics and Medical Informatics, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-089 Bialystok, Poland;
| | - Roman Załuska
- Department of Management and Logistics in Health Care, Medical University of Lodz, 90-131 Lodz, Poland; (R.Z.); (R.K.)
| | - Remigiusz Kozłowski
- Department of Management and Logistics in Health Care, Medical University of Lodz, 90-131 Lodz, Poland; (R.Z.); (R.K.)
| | - Martyna Zastawna
- Department of Psychology, SWPS University of Social Sciences and Humanities, 03-815 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Michał Marczak
- Collegium of Management, WSB University in Warsaw, 03-204 Warsaw, Poland
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8
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Charania NA, Kirkpatrick L, Paynter J, Turner N. Childhood vaccination uptake among children born in Aotearoa New Zealand based on parental nationality. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2023; 19:2240688. [PMID: 37565632 PMCID: PMC10424622 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2023.2240688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Migrants and refugees generally experience immunization inequities compared to their host populations. Childhood vaccination coverage rates are influenced by a complex set of interrelated factors, including child and parental nativity. Coverage rates for MMR, pertussis, and HPV vaccines were compared among children born in Aotearoa New Zealand (NZ) of overseas-born parents or NZ-born parents. A nationwide retrospective cohort study was conducted using linked, de-identified data. Logistic regression models examined the most influential factors contributing to differences in timely vaccine uptake. Of the total study population who had received all scheduled vaccines (N = 760,269), 32.9% were children of migrant parents. Children of migrant parents had higher rates of complete and timely uptake for MMR, pertussis, and HPV vaccinations compared to non-migrant children. NZ-born children of migrant parents were significantly more likely to receive MMR and pertussis-containing vaccines on-time compared to those of non-migrants. All included factors, except for the child's gender and parents' English ability, significantly influenced vaccine uptake. Among NZ-born children of migrant parents, additional logistic modeling found significant differences based on parental duration of residence, visa group, and region of nationality. Findings point to the importance of differentiating between parent versus child nativity when examining immunization coverage. While vaccination rates were higher for NZ-born children of migrant parents, compared to non-migrant parents, timely coverage rates across both groups were below national targets. Continued efforts are needed to improve timely immunization service delivery to address suboptimal and inequitable coverage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia A. Charania
- Department of Public Health, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
- Migrant and Refugee Research Health Centre, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Linda Kirkpatrick
- New Zealand Work Research Institute, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Janine Paynter
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Nikki Turner
- The Immunisation Advisory Centre, Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Das MK. Adverse Events Following Immunization- The Known Unknowns and Black Box : Based on 10th Dr. I. C. Verma Excellence Award for Young Pediatricians Delivered as Oration on 9th Oct. 2022. Indian J Pediatr 2023; 90:817-825. [PMID: 37233889 PMCID: PMC10213574 DOI: 10.1007/s12098-023-04555-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Although vaccines are one of the most rigorously tested biological products, the safety concerns persist globally. The vaccine safety concerns linked to measles, pentavalent and human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines have affected the vaccine coverage significantly in past. While surveillance of adverse events following immunization (AEFI) is part of the national immunization program mandate, it suffers from challenges and biases related to reporting, completeness, and quality. Some conditions of concern, termed as adverse events of special interest (AESI) following vaccination, mandated specialised studies to prove/disprove the association. The AEFIs/AESIs are usually caused by one of the four pathophysiologic mechanisms, but for several AEFIs/AESIs, the exact pathophysiology remains elusive. For the causality assessment of AEFIs, a systematic process with checklists and algorithm are followed to classify into one of the four causal association categories. While the causal association primarily banks on epidemiological observations for several AEFIs, the emerging evidences indicate roles of underlying genetic, gender, age and other pro-inflammatory risk factors for AEFIs and AESIs. The emerging evidences suggest role of antigenic mimicry, autoantibody(ies) and underlying genetic susceptibility for the AEFIs/AESIs. The uncertainty about the frequency, profile, interval, and severity of AEFIs/AESIs and variations across the population, ambiguity about the exact pathophysiology mechanism, absence of definite markers, suggest a possible black box effect of the vaccines. Unless these unanswered questions concerning the AEFIs/AESIs are addressed appropriately and communicated to the stakeholders (professionals, care providers, beneficiaries, general public and media), the anti-vaccine movement shall keep challenging the vaccine and vaccination program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manoja Kumar Das
- Director Projects, The INCLEN Trust International, New Delhi, 110020, India.
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Khoodoruth MAS, Khoodoruth WNCK, Ramadan AAM, Johnson B, Gulistan S, Deluvio RBC, Alamri MN, Al-Abdulla M, Ouanes S, Khan YS. Evaluating COVID-19 vaccination intentions and vaccine hesitancy among parents of children with autism spectrum disorder. Sci Rep 2023; 13:7353. [PMID: 37147338 PMCID: PMC10161974 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-34191-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023] Open
Abstract
As the global vaccination mass campaign against COVID-19 extended to children aged 5 to 11 years, some parents remained hesitant about their children being administered the vaccine despite data supporting its safety. Parent vaccine hesitancy (PVH) may have predisposed certain groups of children, particularly those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), to COVID-19 when other neurotypical children would have been vaccinated. We investigated the current PVH in 243 parents of children with ASD and 245 controls using the Parent Attitudes about Childhood Vaccines (PACV) scale. The study was conducted in Qatar from May to October 2022. Overall, 15.0% [95% CI 11.7%; 18.3%] of parents were vaccine-hesitant, with no difference (p = 0.054) between groups (ASD children [18.2%] vs. controls [11.7%]). The only sociodemographic factor associated with higher vaccine hesitancy was being a mother (as compared to being a father). The COVID-19 vaccine receipt rate at the time of the study did not differ between ASD (24.3%) and non-ASD groups (27.8%). Around two-thirds of parents of children with ASD refused or were unsure about vaccinating their children against COVID-19. We found that the intent to vaccinate against COVID-19 was higher in parents who were married and in those with a lower PACV total score. Continued public health efforts are needed to address vaccine hesitancy among parents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Adil Shah Khoodoruth
- Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service, Hamad Medical Corporation, PO Box 3050, Doha, Qatar.
- Division of Genomics and Precision Medicine, College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Education City, Qatar.
| | | | | | - Beena Johnson
- Child Development Center, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Shaima Gulistan
- Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service, Hamad Medical Corporation, PO Box 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | | | | | - Majid Al-Abdulla
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- College of Medicine, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sami Ouanes
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Yasser Saeed Khan
- Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service, Hamad Medical Corporation, PO Box 3050, Doha, Qatar
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Novilla MLB, Goates MC, Redelfs AH, Quenzer M, Novilla LKB, Leffler T, Holt CA, Doria RB, Dang MT, Hewitt M, Lind E, Prickett E, Aldridge K. Why Parents Say No to Having Their Children Vaccinated against Measles: A Systematic Review of the Social Determinants of Parental Perceptions on MMR Vaccine Hesitancy. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:926. [PMID: 37243030 PMCID: PMC10224336 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11050926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Ongoing outbreaks of measles threaten its elimination status in the United States. Its resurgence points to lower parental vaccine confidence and local pockets of unvaccinated and undervaccinated individuals. The geographic clustering of hesitancy to MMR indicates the presence of social drivers that shape parental perceptions and decisions on immunization. Through a qualitative systematic review of published literature (n = 115 articles; 7 databases), we determined major themes regarding parental reasons for MMR vaccine hesitancy, social context of MMR vaccine hesitancy, and trustworthy vaccine information sources. Fear of autism was the most cited reason for MMR hesitancy. The social drivers of vaccine hesitancy included primary care/healthcare, education, economy, and government/policy factors. Social factors, such as income and education, exerted a bidirectional influence, which facilitated or hindered vaccine compliance depending on how the social determinant was experienced. Fear of autism was the most cited reason for MMR hesitancy. Vaccine hesitancy to MMR and other childhood vaccines clustered in middle- to high-income areas among mothers with a college-level education or higher who preferred internet/social media narratives over physician-based vaccine information. They had low parental trust, low perceived disease susceptibility, and were skeptical of vaccine safety and benefits. Combating MMR vaccine misinformation and hesitancy requires intersectoral and multifaceted approaches at various socioecological levels to address the social drivers of vaccine behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael C. Goates
- Harold B. Lee Library, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Alisha H. Redelfs
- Department of Public Health, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Mallory Quenzer
- Department of Public Health, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | | | - Tyler Leffler
- Department of Public Health, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Christian A. Holt
- Department of Public Health, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Russell B. Doria
- School of Osteopathic Medicine, Campbell University, Lillington, NC 27546, USA
| | - Michael T. Dang
- School of Osteopathic Medicine, Campbell University, Lillington, NC 27546, USA
| | - Melissa Hewitt
- Department of Public Health, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Emma Lind
- Department of Public Health, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Elizabeth Prickett
- Department of Public Health, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Katelyn Aldridge
- Department of Public Health, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
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12
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Eckhartt GM, Ruxton GD. Investigating and preventing scientific misconduct using Benford's Law. Res Integr Peer Rev 2023; 8:1. [PMID: 37041616 PMCID: PMC10088595 DOI: 10.1186/s41073-022-00126-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 04/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Integrity and trust in that integrity are fundamental to academic research. However, procedures for monitoring the trustworthiness of research, and for investigating cases where concern about possible data fraud have been raised are not well established. Here we suggest a practical approach for the investigation of work suspected of fraudulent data manipulation using Benford's Law. This should be of value to both individual peer-reviewers and academic institutions and journals. In this, we draw inspiration from well-established practices of financial auditing. We provide synthesis of the literature on tests of adherence to Benford's Law, culminating in advice of a single initial test for digits in each position of numerical strings within a dataset. We also recommend further tests which may prove useful in the event that specific hypotheses regarding the nature of data manipulation can be justified. Importantly, our advice differs from the most common current implementations of tests of Benford's Law. Furthermore, we apply the approach to previously-published data, highlighting the efficacy of these tests in detecting known irregularities. Finally, we discuss the results of these tests, with reference to their strengths and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Graeme D Ruxton
- School of Biology, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, KY16 9TH, UK
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13
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Medical Misinformation and Healthy Information Environment: A Call to Action. J Nurse Pract 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nurpra.2022.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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14
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Health misinformation and freedom of expression: considerations for policymakers. HEALTH ECONOMICS, POLICY, AND LAW 2023; 18:204-217. [PMID: 36718749 DOI: 10.1017/s1744133122000263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Health misinformation, most visibly following the COVID-19 infodemic, is an urgent threat that hinders the success of public health policies. It likely contributed, and will continue to contribute, to avoidable deaths. Policymakers around the world are being pushed to tackle this problem. Legislative acts have been rolled out or announced in many countries and at the European Union level. The goal of this paper is not to review particular legislative initiatives, or to assess the impact and efficacy of measures implemented by digital intermediaries, but to reflect on the high constitutional and ethical stakes involved in tackling health misinformation through speech regulation. Our findings suggest that solutions focused on regulating speech are likely to encounter significant constraints, as policymakers grasp with the limitations imposed by freedom of expression and ethical considerations. Solutions focused on empowering individuals - such as media literacy initiatives, fact-checking or credibility labels - are one way to avoid such hurdles.
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15
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Charania NA, Paynter J, Turner N. MMR vaccine coverage and associated factors among overseas-born refugee children resettled in Aotearoa New Zealand: a national retrospective cohort study. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. WESTERN PACIFIC 2023; 33:100709. [PMID: 36860307 PMCID: PMC9969282 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2023.100709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
Background Refugee children may be under-immunised against common vaccine-preventable diseases due to a myriad of factors related to their migration journey. Methods This retrospective cohort study explored the rates and determinants of enrolment on the National Immunisation Register (NIR) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) coverage among refugee children up to 18 years old who resettled in Aotearoa New Zealand (NZ) from 2006 to 2013. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression were conducted to determine associations. Findings Of the cohort (N = 2796), two thirds of the children (69%) were enrolled on the NIR. Among this sub-cohort (n = 1926), less than one third (30%) were age-appropriately vaccinated with MMR. MMR coverage was highest among younger children and improved over time. Logistic modelling revealed that visa category, year of arrival, and age group were significant factors that influenced NIR enrolment and MMR vaccine uptake. Those arriving via asylum seeking, family reunification and humanitarian pathways were less likely to be enrolled and vaccinated compared to refugees who entered under the national quota programme. More recent arrivals and younger children were more likely to be enrolled and vaccinated compared to children who arrived in NZ longer ago and were older. Interpretation Resettled refugee children have suboptimal NIR enrolment and MMR coverage rates which varied significantly by visa category, highlighting the need for immunisation services to better engage with all refugee families. These findings suggest that broad structural factors related to policy and immunisation service delivery may influence the differentials seen. Funding Health Research Council of New Zealand (18/586).
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia A. Charania
- Department of Public Health, Auckland University of Technology, 640 Great South Road, Manukau, 2025, Auckland, New Zealand
- Migrant and Refugee Research Health Centre, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Janine Paynter
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Auckland, 28 Park Ave, Grafton, 1023, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Nikki Turner
- The Immunisation Advisory Centre, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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16
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Green MS. Rational and irrational vaccine hesitancy. Isr J Health Policy Res 2023; 12:11. [PMID: 36978105 PMCID: PMC10043862 DOI: 10.1186/s13584-023-00560-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
In the paper published recently in this journal, Kumar et al. explained why the key to improved COVID-19 vaccine uptake is to understand societal reactions leading to vaccine hesitancy. They conclude that communications strategies should be tailored to the different phases of vaccine hesitancy. However, within the theoretical framework provided in their paper, vaccine hesitancy should be recognized as having both rational and irrational components. Rational vaccine hesitancy is a natural result of the inherent uncertainties in the potential impact of vaccines in controlling the pandemic. In general, irrational hesitancy is based on baseless information obtained from hearsay and deliberately false information. Risk communication should address both with transparent, evidence-based information. Rational concerns can be allayed by sharing the process in which dilemmas and uncertainties are dealt with by the health authorities. Messages on irrational concerns need to address head on the sources spreading unscientific and unsound information. In both cases, there is a need to develop risk communication that restores trust in the health authorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manfred S Green
- School of Public Health, University of Haifa, 199 Abba Khoushy, Mount Carmel, 3498838, Haifa, Israel.
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17
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Anderson-Chavarria M, Turner J. Searching for the 'Trigger': An ethnographic analysis of parental beliefs regarding autism causation and vaccination in Puerto Rico. Vaccine 2023; 41:540-546. [PMID: 36496281 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2022.11.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
This study examines the personal beliefs held by parents of autistic children in Puerto Rico regarding the cause of their child's autism and how these beliefs may influence parental vaccination decision-making. This study seeks to contribute towards diversifying the autism literature by focusing on an autism community living in a relatively lower income, resource-deficit context. These findings expand our understandings of how parents of autistic children may perceive vaccines and how these perceptions are informed by various sources of knowledge. This ethnographic research study was conducted between May 2017 and August 2019. Methods included 350+ hours of participant-observation and semi-structured interviewing of 35 Puerto Rican parents of autistic children. 32 of these 35 parents interviewed believed autism to be the result of genetic risks that are 'triggered' by an unknown environmental factor. Suggested 'triggers' included various environmental contaminants and vaccinations. The subject of vaccination came up in every interview; 18 interviewed parents did not believe vaccines 'triggered' autism, 3 parents attributed their child's autism entirely to vaccines, while 14 considered vaccines to be one of several possible 'triggers'. It is important to note that no parents interviewed perceived vaccinations to be inherently or universally harmful. Rather, they perceived vaccinations to be one of many possible 'triggers' for a child predisposed to develop autism. In some cases, this perception prompted parents to oppose mandatory vaccination policies on the island. Parents shared nuanced, complex understandings of autism causation that may carry implications for COVID-19 vaccine uptake within the Puerto Rican autistic community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Anderson-Chavarria
- DO-PhD Program, Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine and the Department of Anthropology, 909 Wilson Road, West Fee Hall, Rm 317, East Lansing, MI 48824, United States.
| | - Jane Turner
- Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, Life Sciences Bldg, 1355 Bogue St., B240, East Lansing, MI 48824, United States.
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18
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Safety of Vaccination within First Year of Life-The Experience of One General Medicine Center. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:children10010104. [PMID: 36670654 PMCID: PMC9856298 DOI: 10.3390/children10010104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Vaccines represent an important preventive strategy in paediatric populations, but the rate of vaccination has been constantly declining in the last decade. Concerns about vaccines' safety represent one of the main causes of vaccine hesitancy among parents. The aim of this study was the analysis of the immediate adverse reactions induced by vaccines included in the national program of immunization for the first year of life. Method: Eighty-one children born between 1st of January 2018 and 31st of March 2019 were included. The vaccination refusal rate, and incidence and severity of adverse effects induced by three mandatory vaccines (Hexavalent, Prevenar 13 and MMR) were analyzed. The level of parents' education and the sources of information that were consulted in order to understand the adverse effects were also analyzed. Results and conclusions: The rate of adverse events was lower than 30% of the total number of doses, and most of them were mild. The incidence and severity of vaccine-induced adverse effects were correlated with prematurity. The vaccine hesitancy rate was lower than the national one, possibly due to a high level of education and good information provided by doctors that might have led to parents' concerns regarding vaccination being answered.
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19
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Korematsu S, Mine M, Kobayashi T, Hara T, Oyama S, Tanaka S, Kobayashi N, Kawano Y, Suganuma E, Furuichi M, Momoki T, Minakuchi J. Factors affecting guardians' decision-making regarding the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. Pediatr Int 2023; 65:e15700. [PMID: 37991185 DOI: 10.1111/ped.15700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Japan, the vaccination rate against the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine for children was low. Therefore, in this study we investigated the factors influencing guardians' decision-making regarding vaccination of their children. METHODS From November 1, 2022 to March 31, 2023, pediatric clinics, departments, and midwifery clinics in Saitama Prefecture requested guardians of children under the age of 15 to complete an online questionnaire. RESULTS Responses were obtained from 894 guardians of children aged 6 months to 15 years; 142 had had one of their children vaccinated at least once and 629 had not had any of their children vaccinated. Among guardians who had not had any of their children vaccinated, "the Age of children" was significantly younger (p < 0.001) and "Prevalence" (p < 0.001), "Free vaccination" (p < 0.001), and "Intentions of national and local governments" (p = 0.005) were selected as reasons significantly less frequently in comparison to guardians who had vaccinated their children. "Japanese adverse reactions" (p < 0.001), "Japanese effectiveness" (p < 0.001), "Adverse reactions" (p < 0.001), "History of adverse reactions" (p < 0.001), and "Reputation of friends" (p = 0.006) were selected significantly more frequently by guardians who had not had any of their children vaccinated. CONCLUSIONS Guardians who had had one of their children vaccinated at least once emphasized the importance of prevalence and free vaccination. On the other hand, guardians who had not had any of their children vaccinated placed particular importance on adverse reactions and the Japanese data on effectiveness. To guide the decision-making of guardians, it is necessary to quickly collect and publish data on adverse reactions and effectiveness, particularly in Japanese individuals, so that citizens can decide whether to vaccinate themselves and their children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seigo Korematsu
- Sai-no-Kuni Vaccination Promotion Council, Saitama, Japan
- Department of Pediatrics, Saitama Medical Center, Saitama Medical University, Kawagoe, Japan
| | - Mahito Mine
- Sai-no-Kuni Vaccination Promotion Council, Saitama, Japan
- Mine Pediatrics, Saitama, Japan
| | - Toshihiro Kobayashi
- Sai-no-Kuni Vaccination Promotion Council, Saitama, Japan
- Kobayashi Kid Clinic, Kumagaya, Saitama, Japan
| | - Tomokuni Hara
- Sai-no-Kuni Vaccination Promotion Council, Saitama, Japan
- Hara Kodomo Clinic, Tokorozawa, Japan
| | - Shoichi Oyama
- Sai-no-Kuni Vaccination Promotion Council, Saitama, Japan
- Department of Pediatrics, Saiseikai Kawaguchi General Hospital, Kawaguchi, Saitama, Japan
| | - Shuhou Tanaka
- Sai-no-Kuni Vaccination Promotion Council, Saitama, Japan
- Clinic for Babies & Children, Kawaguchi, Saitama, Japan
| | - Noriaki Kobayashi
- Sai-no-Kuni Vaccination Promotion Council, Saitama, Japan
- Kobayashi Children's Clinic, Kawagoe, Saitama, Japan
| | - Yutaka Kawano
- Sai-no-Kuni Vaccination Promotion Council, Saitama, Japan
| | - Eisuke Suganuma
- Sai-no-Kuni Vaccination Promotion Council, Saitama, Japan
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Allergy, Saitama Children's Medical Center, Saitama, Japan
| | - Mihoko Furuichi
- Sai-no-Kuni Vaccination Promotion Council, Saitama, Japan
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Allergy, Saitama Children's Medical Center, Saitama, Japan
| | - Toshiro Momoki
- Sai-no-Kuni Vaccination Promotion Council, Saitama, Japan
- Momoki Children's Clinic, Koshigaya, Saitama, Japan
| | - Junichi Minakuchi
- Sai-no-Kuni Vaccination Promotion Council, Saitama, Japan
- Minakuchi Children's Clinic, Tsurugashima, Saitama, Japan
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20
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Berger C, Ben-Shalom U, Tarant Z, Longo J, DeDonno M. The Influence of the Health Belief Model on the Decision to Get the COVID-19 Vaccine: An International Survey Study of College Students. INQUIRY : A JOURNAL OF MEDICAL CARE ORGANIZATION, PROVISION AND FINANCING 2023; 60:469580231164229. [PMID: 37016560 PMCID: PMC10076239 DOI: 10.1177/00469580231164229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2023]
Abstract
To better prepare for a potential future pandemic, it is important to investigate factors that influenced responses to the recent COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of the present study was to investigate factors that influenced the decision to get the COVID-19 vaccine. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected almost everyone throughout the world. Vaccines are a significant factor in managing a pandemic. As vaccines are developed, governments develop vaccine roll-out plans. Unfortunately, vaccine hesitancies can slow the implementation of any vaccine program. A question arises as to the factors that are associated with the decision to get vaccinated. The present study explored associations between vaccine hesitancy, and the Health Belief Model (HBM) in student samples from the Czech Republic, Israel, and the United States. From August, 2021 through December, 2021, an online survey was distributed in Czech, Hebrew, and English. A total of 447 participants completed the survey. A binomial logistic regression was conducted to ascertain the influence of perceived susceptibility, severity, benefits, and barriers on the likelihood that participants are vaccinated. Results revealed that the factors of perceived severity and perceived benefits explained 52.6% (Nagelkerke R2) of the variance in vaccination. An analysis of Variance (ANOVA) found significant differences between countries for the 4 HBM factors. Based on these findings, it is recommended that policymakers put forth added emphasis on the severity of a virus and the benefits associated with the vaccine. Further, since there appears to be variability between countries in perceptions of the virus, and associated vaccine, governments should consider factors within their own environment when developing a strategy to combat a pandemic. More specifically, government could explore their own strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats as they develop a pandemic strategy. Additional practical and theoretical implications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Joy Longo
- Florida Atlantic University, Christine
E. Lynn College of Nursing, Boca Raton, FL, USA
| | - Michael DeDonno
- Florida Atlantic University, College of
Education, Boca Raton, FL, USA
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21
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Wang F, Lao UC, Xing YP, Zhou P, Deng WL, Wang Y, Ji Y, Chen MY, Li H, Zou XB. Parents' knowledge and attitude and behavior toward autism: a survey of Chinese families having children with autism spectrum disorder. Transl Pediatr 2022; 11:1445-1457. [PMID: 36247889 PMCID: PMC9561515 DOI: 10.21037/tp-22-113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent years, parent-mediated intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has increased. Therefore, implementing effective parent training programs for parents of children with autism is of paramount importance, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. However, little is known about the status of and gaps in parents' knowledge on ASD, which may hinder the development of valid parental training programs. Herein, we aimed at exploring the status of Chinese parents' knowledge, attitude and behavior toward ASD, and potential factors affecting the acquisition of correct knowledge. METHODS This study used a self-designed parental knowledge questionnaire of autism (PKQA) comprising 20 questions alongside another questionnaire comprising additional 17 questions covering the aspects of family demographics, attitudes, and behaviors of parents. In total, we included 394 parents who visited the outpatient department of the Child's Development and Behavior Center of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University between December 2018 and May 2019, with their children meeting the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) diagnostic criteria for ASD. RESULTS The median knowledge score in the PKQA was 15 [interquartile range (IQR), 13-17]. Advanced paternal age and longer time interval from diagnosis to enrolling into the parent training program were associated with a lower total knowledge score (all P<0.001). Higher maternal education attainment, higher family income, child being currently under intervention, and family members sharing a common perception of the diagnosis were associated with a higher total knowledge score (all P<0.01). Reading autism-related books (P<0.001) or attending professional lectures (P=0.019) were also associated with a higher total knowledge score. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, this study revealed that family demographics and parents' attitudes and behaviors toward ASD may significantly influence their knowledge about autism, suggesting the need for promoting more targeted parental skills training programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Wang
- Child Development and Behavior Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - U-Chong Lao
- Child Development and Behavior Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi-Pei Xing
- Child Development and Behavior Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ping Zhou
- Rehabilitation Medicine Department, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wen-Lin Deng
- Department of Pediatrics, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Child Development and Behavior Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yue Ji
- Child Development and Behavior Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Miao-Ying Chen
- Child Development and Behavior Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hai Li
- Rehabilitation Medicine Department, Shenzhen Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiao-Bing Zou
- Child Development and Behavior Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
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22
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Mohammed SA, Rajashekar S, Giri Ravindran S, Kakarla M, Ausaja Gambo M, Yousri Salama M, Haidar Ismail N, Tavalla P, Uppal P, Hamid P. Does Vaccination Increase the Risk of Autism Spectrum Disorder? Cureus 2022; 14:e27921. [PMID: 36110492 PMCID: PMC9464417 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.27921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that can cause significant social, communicative, and behavioral difficulties. With autism rates rising dramatically in recent years, researchers and concerned parents have theorized the causes of autism, and the subject has received much attention. Is the high rate of autism now due to increased diagnosis and reporting, changing autism definitions, or a rise in the number of people with ASD? People started to blame vaccines as a cause of the increased number of people with ASD. Vaccines and their connection to autism have been the subject of continuous debate. Some parents are concerned that vaccines, particularly the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine and preservatives used in other childhood vaccines, may play a role in developing autism in their children. This systemic review explores the link between vaccination and autism in children. We conducted a literature search using PubMed and Google Scholar. We included papers written in the English language from 1998 to 2022, conducting human research that examines the relationship between vaccination and the development of autism using appropriate quality assessment tools. Two reviewers independently reviewed the content of the included studies. In total, 21 studies were deemed eligible.
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23
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Knowledge and Attitude on Childhood Vaccination among Healthcare Workers in Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10071017. [PMID: 35891181 PMCID: PMC9318045 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10071017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Vaccine hesitancy is recognized as an important issue globally and healthcare workers (HCWs) have a powerful influence on the public. Recent studies have reported that there are increasing numbers of vaccine hesitancies among HCWs. This study was conducted to assess the knowledge and attitudes on childhood vaccinations among HCWs in Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia (HUSM). (2) Methods: This is a cross-sectional study conducted among one hundred and ninety-eight HCWs in HUSM, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan who were selected via convenient sampling. Data on their socio-demographic details, working experience, and main source of information regarding childhood vaccination were collected. A validated, Malay version of the knowledge and attitude on childhood vaccination (KACV) questionnaire was used during the study. (3) Results: Female (OR (95% CI):3.15, (1.39, 7.12), p < 0.05) and a higher education level (degree and above) (OR (95% CI): 2.36 (1.14, 4.89), p < 0.05) are significantly associated with good knowledge. Respondents with a history of side effects of the vaccines among their relatives were about 66% less likely to have good knowledge (OR (95% CI): 0.342 (0.16, 0.73), p < 0.05). A positive attitude towards childhood vaccination was significantly associated with a higher level of education participants, who had significantly better knowledge than participants with a lower education level (OR (95% CI): 3.81, (1.92, 7.57), p < 0.001). On the contrary, participants having direct contact with patients were less likely to have a good attitude towards childhood vaccination (OR (95% CI): 0.207 (0.043, 0.10), p < 0.05), and those with a history of severe side effects of the vaccines among their relatives were also significantly associated with a poor attitude towards childhood vaccination (OR (95% CI: 0.342 (0.16, 0.76), p < 0.05).; (4) Conclusions: The survey findings showed a good level of knowledge and a good attitude of participants towards childhood vaccination. Good knowledge is important for the HCWs to have a favourable attitude to educate the general population on childhood vaccination.
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24
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Nair G, Venkatesan K, Nair A, Firoz IN, Haroon NN. COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and influence of professional medical guidance. JOURNAL OF EDUCATION AND HEALTH PROMOTION 2022; 11:112. [PMID: 35677278 PMCID: PMC9170208 DOI: 10.4103/jehp.jehp_792_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vaccine hesitancy presents a major challenge during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is crucial to address the factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy necessary to control the associated morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to investigate the impact of professional medical guidance on the likelihood of receiving the COVID-19 vaccine in immigrants of USA and Canada. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 92 immigrants in the USA and Canada who predominantly spoke Malayalam were recruited using social media platforms. An online survey was administered investigating participants' confidence in receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. Following, a short webinar was conducted by a medical professional explaining the efficacy and safety of the vaccine. A postwebinar survey was immediately given assessing the confidence and likelihood of receiving the vaccine. SPSS was used to generate descriptive statistics and Pearson Chi-square analysis where appropriate. RESULTS Results revealed that participants who attended the webinar reported greater confidence in receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. There was a statistically significant difference between pre- and postwebinar confidence scores for the COVID-19 vaccine, χ2 (12, n = 80) = 43.34, P < 0.01. CONCLUSION Results from the current study demonstrate the successful delivery of professional medical guidance to the general public through online small-group sessions to help address the misconceptions surrounding the COVID-19 vaccine and combat vaccine hesitancy among vulnerable populations. Future studies should focus on interventions addressing vaccine hesitancy in larger and diverse populations and analyze other barriers to vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Govind Nair
- Student, Greenwood Laboratory School, Springfield, Missouri, USA
| | - Kirthika Venkatesan
- Caribbean Medical University School of Medicine, 25 Pater Euwensweg, Willemstad, Curaçao
| | - Arjun Nair
- Undergraduate Student, Psychology, Neuroscience, and Behavior Program, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Irene N. Firoz
- School of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, 123 Stephen's Green, Dublin, D02 YN77, Ireland
| | - Nisha Nigil Haroon
- Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Sudbury, Ontario, Canada
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25
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Zerbo O, Modaressi S, Goddard K, Lewis E, Fireman B, Daley MF, Irving SA, Jackson LA, Donahue JG, Qian L, Getahun D, DeStefano F, McNeil MM, Klein NP. Safety of measles and pertussis-containing vaccines in children with autism spectrum disorders. Vaccine 2022; 40:2568-2573. [PMID: 35315325 PMCID: PMC10987202 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2022.03.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine whether children aged 4-7 years with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) were at increased risk of fever, febrile seizures, or emergency department (ED) visits following measles- or pertussis-containing vaccines compared with children without ASD. METHODS The study included children born between 1995-2012, aged 4-7 years at vaccination, and members of six healthcare delivery systems within Vaccine Safety Datalink. We conducted self-controlled risk interval analyses comparing rates of outcomes in risk and control intervals within each group defined by ASD status, and then compared outcome rates between children with and without ASD, in risk and control intervals, by estimating difference-in-differences using logistic regressions. RESULTS The study included 14,947 children with ASD and 1,650,041 children without ASD. After measles- or pertussis-containing vaccination, there were no differences in association between children with and without ASD for fever (ratio of rate ratio for measles-containing vaccine = 1.07, 95% CI 0.58-1.96; for pertussis-containing vaccine = 1.16, 95% CI 0.63-2.15) or ED visits (ratio of rate ratio for measles-containing vaccine = 1.11, 95% CI 0.80-1.54; for pertussis-containing vaccine = 0.87, 95% CI 0.59-1.28). Febrile seizures were rare. Pertussis-containing vaccines were associated with small increased risk of febrile seizures in children without ASD. CONCLUSION Children with ASD were not at increased risk for fever or ED visits compared with children without ASD following measles- or pertussis-containing vaccines. These results may provide further reassurance that these vaccines are safe for all children, including those with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ousseny Zerbo
- Kaiser Permanente Vaccine Study Center, Oakland, CA, United States.
| | | | - Kristin Goddard
- Kaiser Permanente Vaccine Study Center, Oakland, CA, United States
| | - Edwin Lewis
- Kaiser Permanente Vaccine Study Center, Oakland, CA, United States
| | - Bruce Fireman
- Kaiser Permanente Vaccine Study Center, Oakland, CA, United States
| | - Matthew F Daley
- Institute for Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Colorado, Denver, CO, United States
| | - Stephanie A Irving
- The Center for Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Northwest, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Lisa A Jackson
- Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - James G Donahue
- Center for Clinical Epidemiology & Population Health, Marshfield Clinic Research Foundation, Marshfield, WI, United States
| | - Lei Qian
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, CA, United States
| | - Darios Getahun
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, CA, United States; Department of Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, CA, United States
| | - Frank DeStefano
- Immunization Safety Office, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Michael M McNeil
- Immunization Safety Office, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Nicola P Klein
- Kaiser Permanente Vaccine Study Center, Oakland, CA, United States
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26
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Aliasin MM, Yazdanpanah N, Rezaei N. Neurological and neuropsychological adverse effects of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines - where do we stand? Rev Neurosci 2022; 33:721-743. [PMID: 35334195 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2022-0006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The devastating characteristic of COVID-19 pandemic calls for immediate and effective solutions to tackle it. Vaccines seem to be the only promising and effective way to fight against the novel coronavirus - even against new mutated variants. Because of the rapid development and distribution of numerous COVID-19 vaccines in different platforms, meticulous evaluation of vaccines' safety is more critical than ever - especially given the fact that most of the candidates have not completed the clinical phase. Therefore, to optimize the vaccines' safety and efficacy, it is highly important to carefully report and scientifically discuss the serious adverse effects following vaccination. In this respect, we discuss different neurological and neuropsychological adverse effects of COVID-19 vaccines including demyelinating diseases, Bell's palsy (BP), cerebrovascular complications, seizures, functional neurological disorders (FNDs), and some other rare adverse events, and hypothetical mechanisms which can lead to the reported side effects. Given the fact that the incidence of such events are rare and most of them are treatable, the current review aims to shed light on how much the relationship between COVID-19 vaccines and these complications can be reliable and provide an insight for future studies with much more meticulous methodologies to discuss the possible correlational or causal relationship between these complications and COVID-19 vaccines and elucidate whether or not the neurological side effects of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccines can count as a considerable threat to public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Mahdi Aliasin
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, 14176 13151 Tehran, Iran.,Students' Scientific Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, 14177 55331 Tehran, Iran.,Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), 14197 33151 Tehran, Iran
| | - Niloufar Yazdanpanah
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, 14176 13151 Tehran, Iran.,Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, 14197 33151 Tehran, Iran.,Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), 14197 33151 Tehran, Iran
| | - Nima Rezaei
- Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, 14197 33151 Tehran, Iran.,Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), 14197 33151 Tehran, Iran.,Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, 14176 13151 Tehran, Iran
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27
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Lithander MP, Geraci L, Karaca M, Rydberg J. Correcting Neuromyths: A Comparison of Different Types of Refutations. JOURNAL OF APPLIED RESEARCH IN MEMORY AND COGNITION 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jarmac.2021.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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28
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Agustina Setyaningsih, Siregar KN. Factor Influencing Vaccine Rejection of Complete Basic Immunization in Indonesia. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2021.7195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM: This study aims to identify psychological factors against vaccine rejection in Indonesia. The study also provides a review of the group of different factors on psychological factors in social media.
METHODS: This study uses secondary data sourced from Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram about vaccines rejection from 2018 to 2019. That text is labeled based on seven psychological factors that influence vaccine rejection. The factor analysis method is used to determine the relationship between vaccine rejection and psychological factors.
RESULTS: Dimension 1 focused on individual and group influences, where the correlation value between factors such as vaccine misinformation, health worker trust, perception of side effect is 0.906 (>0.5). Dimension 2 used different factors such as trust in the goverment, negative opinion about vaccine efficacy, and social influence as contextual/environmental influencers,with a correlation value of 0.866 (>0.5). Meanwhile, Dimension 3 with general perception is a factor in vaccine and vaccination specific problems with a correlation value of 0.940 (>0.5).
CONCLUSION: Psychological factors are mainly associated with vaccine rejection. Stakeholders need to observe these factors in identifying conditions for childhood vaccines rejection posted on social media in Indonesia.
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29
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Prediction Model for COVID-19 Vaccination Intention among the Mobile Population in China: Validation and Stability. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9111221. [PMID: 34835154 PMCID: PMC8617731 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9111221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Since China’s launch of the COVID-19 vaccination, the situation of the public, especially the mobile population, has not been optimistic. We investigated 782 factory workers for whether they would get a COVID-19 vaccine within the next 6 months. The participants were divided into a training set and a testing set for external validation conformed to a ratio of 3:1 with R software. The variables were screened by the Lead Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression analysis. Then, the prediction model, including important variables, used a multivariate logistic regression analysis and presented as a nomogram. The Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve, Kolmogorov–Smirnov (K-S) test, Lift test and Population Stability Index (PSI) were performed to test the validity and stability of the model and summarize the validation results. Only 45.54% of the participants had vaccination intentions, while 339 (43.35%) were unsure. Four of the 16 screened variables—self-efficacy, risk perception, perceived support and capability—were included in the prediction model. The results indicated that the model has a high predictive power and is highly stable. The government should be in the leading position, and the whole society should be mobilized and also make full use of peer education during vaccination initiatives.
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30
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Martini C, Andreoletti M. Genuine versus bogus scientific controversies: the case of statins. HISTORY AND PHILOSOPHY OF THE LIFE SCIENCES 2021; 43:110. [PMID: 34648083 DOI: 10.1007/s40656-021-00456-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Science progresses through debate and disagreement, and scientific controversies play a crucial role in the growth of scientific knowledge. However, not all controversies and disagreements are progressive in science. Sometimes, controversies can be pseudoscientific; in fact, bogus controversies, and what seem like genuine scientific disagreements, can be a distortion of science set up by non-scientific actors (e.g., interest groups). Bogus controversies are detrimental to science because they can hinder scientific progress and eventually bias science-based decisions. The first goal of this paper is to elucidate the distinction between bogus and genuine scientific controversies and provide a qualitative methodology, based on the literature on expertise, for distinguishing between the two. We will illustrate six epistemic criteria for distinguishing bogus from genuine scientific debates in science and medicine. This heuristic strategy applies directly to scientific reports, and it relies mostly on the social structure of science. We will then apply the above criteria to a case study: the controversy over statins, which are widely prescribed drugs for reducing the level of cholesterol and preventing cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Martini
- Faculty of Philosophy, Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Mattia Andreoletti
- Faculty of Philosophy, Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy.
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31
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Lu L, Xiong W, Mu J, Zhang Q, Zhang H, Zou L, Li W, He L, Sander JW, Zhou D. The potential neurological effect of the COVID-19 vaccines: A review. Acta Neurol Scand 2021; 144:3-12. [PMID: 33779985 PMCID: PMC8250748 DOI: 10.1111/ane.13417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) has become a pandemic with people infected in almost all countries. The most efficient solution to end this pandemic is a safe and efficient vaccine. Classic platforms are used to develop vaccines including live‐attenuated vaccine, inactivated vaccine, protein subunit vaccine, and viral vector. Nucleic acid vaccine uses next‐generation platforms for their development. Vaccines are now rushing to the market. Eleven candidates are in advance development. These comprise inactivated vaccines, viral vector vaccine, nucleic acid vaccine, and the protein subunit vaccine platform, which are now quite advanced in trials in various geographic and ethnic populations. The reported severe adverse effects raised the worries about their safety. It becomes critical to know whether these vaccines will cause neurologic disorders like previously recognized vaccine‐related demyelinating diseases, fever‐induced seizure, and other possible deficits. We reviewed the most promising COVID‐2 vaccines with a particular interest in mechanism(s) and adverse effect(s). We exemplify potential neurological problems these vaccines could cause by looking at previous studies. The current evidence indicated a minor risk of the acute neurological disorders after the application. The observation of the long‐time effect is still needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Lu
- Department of Neurology West China Hospital of Sichuan University Chengdu China
- DInstitute of Brain science and Brain‐inspired technology of West China Hospital Sichuan University Chengdu China
| | - Weixi Xiong
- Department of Neurology West China Hospital of Sichuan University Chengdu China
- DInstitute of Brain science and Brain‐inspired technology of West China Hospital Sichuan University Chengdu China
| | - Jie Mu
- Department of Neurology West China Hospital of Sichuan University Chengdu China
- DInstitute of Brain science and Brain‐inspired technology of West China Hospital Sichuan University Chengdu China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Department of Neurology West China Hospital of Sichuan University Chengdu China
- DInstitute of Brain science and Brain‐inspired technology of West China Hospital Sichuan University Chengdu China
| | - Hesheng Zhang
- Department of Neurology West China Hospital of Sichuan University Chengdu China
- DInstitute of Brain science and Brain‐inspired technology of West China Hospital Sichuan University Chengdu China
| | - Ling Zou
- Department of Radiology West China Hospital of Sichuan UniversityThe International OfficeWest China Hospital of Sichuan University Chengdu China
| | - Weimin Li
- Department of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine West China Hospital of Sichuan University Chengdu China
| | - Li He
- Department of Neurology West China Hospital of Sichuan University Chengdu China
- DInstitute of Brain science and Brain‐inspired technology of West China Hospital Sichuan University Chengdu China
| | - Josemir W. Sander
- Department of Neurology West China Hospital of Sichuan University Chengdu China
- DInstitute of Brain science and Brain‐inspired technology of West China Hospital Sichuan University Chengdu China
- NIHR University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research CentreUCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology London United Kingdom
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN) Heemstede Netherlands
| | - Dong Zhou
- Department of Neurology West China Hospital of Sichuan University Chengdu China
- DInstitute of Brain science and Brain‐inspired technology of West China Hospital Sichuan University Chengdu China
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32
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COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy in a Representative Education Sector Population in Qatar. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9060665. [PMID: 34207012 PMCID: PMC8235273 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9060665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Even though vaccination programs have now started in earnest across the globe and in Qatar, vaccine hesitancy remains a barrier to effectively tackling the pandemic. Many factors influence willingness to take vaccines including safety, efficacy, and side effects. Given their proximity to research and education, university students and employees represent an interesting cohort in which to investigate vaccine hesitancy. The aim of this study was to assess the attitudes of Qatar University employees and students towards the COVID-19 vaccine. In total, 231 employees and 231 students participated in an online cross-sectional study in February 2021. Of the sample, 62.6% were willing to take a vaccine against COVID-19. Participants with or taking postgraduate degrees were more willing to take the vaccine compared to participants with or taking a diploma or bachelor’s degree (p < 0.001). Males had a higher rate of vaccine acceptance (p < 0.001). In the group that regarded flu vaccination as important, 13% were unwilling to take COVID-19 vaccine. There were no associations between willingness to vaccinate and vaccine/virus knowledge and social media use. Participants showed a high level of concern regarding vaccine side effects in themselves or their children. Two-thirds agreed or strongly agreed that they would take the vaccine if it was mandatory for international travel. Our participants were neutral to the origin of vaccine development. These findings, which represent data collected after the start of the national vaccination program, show that vaccine hesitancy persists in the Qatari population and that some groups, such as undergraduate students, could benefit from specific, targeted public health campaigns.
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33
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Tankwanchi AS, Bowman B, Garrison M, Larson H, Wiysonge CS. Vaccine hesitancy in migrant communities: a rapid review of latest evidence. Curr Opin Immunol 2021; 71:62-68. [PMID: 34118728 DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2021.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
By refusing or delaying vaccination, vaccine hesitant individuals and communities undermine the prevention, and ultimately, elimination of communicable diseases against which safe and effective vaccines are available. We reviewed recent evidence of vaccine hesitancy within migrant communities in the context of increased human mobility and widespread anti-immigrant sentiment and manifest xenophobia. Among many immigrant parents and families, vaccine hesitancy is largely associated with fears and misinformation about vaccine harms, limited knowledge of both preventable diseases and vaccines, distrust of host countries' health systems and their attendant intentions, language barriers, and perceived incompatibility between vaccine uptake and migrants' religion. Hesitancy toward measles, influenza, and human papillomavirus vaccines are most discernible, and main migrant populations involved include Somalis and Poles.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Brett Bowman
- Department of Psychology, School of Human and Community Development, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Michelle Garrison
- Department of Health Services, University of Washington School of Public Health, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Seattle Children's Hospital and University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Heidi Larson
- Department of Health Metrics Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA USA; Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Charles Shey Wiysonge
- Cochrane South Africa, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa; Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa; School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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34
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Huang H, Chen W, Xie T, Wei Y, Feng Z, Wu W. The Impact of Individual Behaviors and Governmental Guidance Measures on Pandemic-Triggered Public Sentiment Based on System Dynamics and Cross-Validation. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:4245. [PMID: 33923746 PMCID: PMC8073253 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18084245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Negative online public sentiment generated by government mishandling of pandemics and other disasters can easily trigger widespread panic and distrust, causing great harm. It is important to understand the law of public sentiment dissemination and use it in a timely and appropriate way. Using the big data of online public sentiment during the COVID-19 period, this paper analyzes and establishes a cross-validation based public sentiment system dynamics model which can simulate the evolution processes of public sentiment under the effects of individual behaviors and governmental guidance measures. A concrete case of a violation of relevant regulations during COVID-19 epidemic that sparked public sentiment in China is introduced as a study sample to test the effectiveness of the proposed method. By running the model, the results show that an increase in government responsiveness contributes to the spread of positive social sentiment but also promotes negative sentiment. Positive individual behavior suppresses negative emotions while promoting the spread of positive emotions. Changes in the disaster context (epidemic) have an impact on the spread of sentiment, but the effect is mediocre.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hainan Huang
- School of Economics, Management and Law at the University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China; (H.H.); (Y.W.); (Z.F.)
| | - Weifan Chen
- Information Sciences and Technology at The Pennsylvania State University, State College, PA 16802, USA;
| | - Tian Xie
- School of Economics, Management and Law at the University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China; (H.H.); (Y.W.); (Z.F.)
| | - Yaoyao Wei
- School of Economics, Management and Law at the University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China; (H.H.); (Y.W.); (Z.F.)
| | - Ziqing Feng
- School of Economics, Management and Law at the University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China; (H.H.); (Y.W.); (Z.F.)
| | - Weijiong Wu
- School of Management, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510520, China;
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35
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Predatory Journals, Fake Conferences and Misleading Social Media: The Dark Side of Medical Information. Zdr Varst 2021; 60:79-81. [PMID: 33822833 PMCID: PMC8015654 DOI: 10.2478/sjph-2021-0012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
We live in an age of information revolution, where trends in informing physicians and the lay public bring new challenges that must be faced by healthcare professionals. Predatory journals and fake conferences are common. Social media is full of false information, which results in serious public health damage. Therefore, it is important that health professionals communicate properly with the public and patients and that they address the education of both the public and other health professionals.
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36
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Hirani JLJ. Inattention or reluctance? Parental responses to vaccination reminder letters. JOURNAL OF HEALTH ECONOMICS 2021; 76:102439. [PMID: 33601095 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhealeco.2021.102439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This paper studies non-adherence in the Danish Childhood Vaccination Program using a nationwide introduction of a vaccination reminder letter policy and administrative data from 2011-2017. First, I provide causal estimates of how the reminder letter policy affects vaccination adherence using a Regression Discontinuity Design (RDD). Second, I link parental responses to the reminder letter to parents' causes for being non-adherent. I find that the reminder letter policy positively affects adherence. However, 72% of non-adherent parents are non-responsive to the reminder letter indicating that reluctance and not inattention is the leading cause for non-adherence. Thus, other policies beyond reminder letters - such as mandatory vaccination laws - are necessary to substantially increase vaccination coverage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Lau-Jensen Hirani
- The Danish Center for Social Science Research (VIVE), Herluf Trolles Gade 11, 1052 Copenhagen, Denmark.
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37
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Thomson OP, MacMillan A, Draper-Rodi J, Vaucher P, Ménard M, Vaughan B, Morin C, Alvarez G, Sampath KK, Cerritelli F, Shaw R, Cymet TC, Bright P, Hohenschurz-Schmidt D, Vogel S. Opposing vaccine hesitancy during the COVID-19 pandemic - A critical commentary and united statement of an international osteopathic research community. INT J OSTEOPATH MED 2021; 39:A1-A6. [PMID: 33623534 PMCID: PMC7893309 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijosm.2021.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Oliver P Thomson
- University College of Osteopathy, 275 Borough High St, London, SE1 1JE, UK
| | - Andrew MacMillan
- University College of Osteopathy, 275 Borough High St, London, SE1 1JE, UK
| | - Jerry Draper-Rodi
- University College of Osteopathy, 275 Borough High St, London, SE1 1JE, UK
| | - Paul Vaucher
- Foundation COME Collaboration, Pescara, Italy.,HES-SO University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, School of Health Sciences Fribourg, Rue des Arsenaux 16a, CH-1700, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Mathieu Ménard
- Foundation COME Collaboration, Pescara, Italy.,Institut d'Ostéopathie de Rennes - Bretagne, Campus Rennes Atalante Ker-Lann, 50 rue Blaise Pascal, 35170, Bruz, France
| | - Brett Vaughan
- Department of Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry & Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Chantal Morin
- Foundation COME Collaboration, Pescara, Italy.,Centre Ostéopathique du Québec, Montréal, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Rehabilitation, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Canada
| | - Gerard Alvarez
- Foundation COME Collaboration, Pescara, Italy.,Spain National Centre, Foundation COME Collaboration, Barcelona, Spain.,Iberoamerican Cochrane Centre-Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau, IIB Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Kesava Kovanur Sampath
- Centre for Health and Social Practice, Waikato Institute of Technology, Hamilton, Waikato, New Zealand
| | | | - Robert Shaw
- Scandinavian College of Osteopathy, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Tyler C Cymet
- Medical Education, American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine, Bethesda, USA
| | - Philip Bright
- European School of Osteopathy, Boxley House, Maidstone, Kent, UK
| | | | - Steven Vogel
- University College of Osteopathy, 275 Borough High St, London, SE1 1JE, UK
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38
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Barbel P. Vaccine safety in infants and children. Nurse Pract 2021; 46:16-18. [PMID: 33475325 DOI: 10.1097/01.npr.0000669152.38420.22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Paula Barbel
- Paula Barbel is an associate professor of nursing at the College at Brockport, State University of New York
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39
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Gorun F, Malita D, Ciohat I, Vilibic-Cavlek T, Feier H, Tabain I, Craina M, Cretu O, Navolan D. Prevalence of Rubella Antibodies among Fertile Women in the West of Romania, 18 Years after the Implementation of Immunization. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9020104. [PMID: 33572943 PMCID: PMC7912329 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9020104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Seronegative women are susceptible to primary rubella virus (RV) infection during pregnancy, which can cause fetal damage. Vaccination represents the main strategy in rubella prevention. The aim of this study was to analyze changes in the rubella seroprevalence and identify populations with a high susceptibility to RV. A cross-sectional study was performed on 6914 Caucasian fertile women who had Toxoplasma gondii, other viruses, Rubella, Cytomegalovirus, and the herpes simplex virus (TORCH) screening in two distinct periods-1452 at the Timișoara Municipal Hospital, Romania (Group 1: 2008-2010) and 5462 at the laboratory Bioclinica S.A., Timișoara, Romania (Group 2: 2015-2018). The RV seroprevalence decreased (Group 1 versus Group 2; 94.1% (92.7-95.2) versus 91.4% (90.6-92.1), OR = 0.76 (p = 0.0007)). According to the year of birth and eligibility to vaccination program, RV seroprevalence rates were 82.4% (76.8-86.8)/1997-2004, 85.4% (80.5-89.3)/1995-1996, 90.1% (89.0-91.1)/<1989, and 95.8% (94.7-96.6)/1989-1994. No significant difference in the RV seropositivity according to the place of residence was found. The overall RV susceptibility increased from 2008-2010 to 2015-2018. The highest susceptibility was found in women born between 1997-2004 eligible for measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine through the family practice system and the lowest in women born between 1989-1994 eligible for monovalent rubella vaccine conducted in schools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florin Gorun
- Department of Obstetrics-Gynecology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square nr. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (F.G.); (M.C.); (D.N.)
| | - Daniel Malita
- Department of Radiology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square nr. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Ioana Ciohat
- Laboratory of Antenatal Medicine, City Unversitary Emergency Hospital Timisoara, str. Odobescu, nr. 1-3, 300202 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Tatjana Vilibic-Cavlek
- Department of Virology, Croatian Institute of Public Health, Rockefeller str. 12, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Salata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Correspondence:
| | - Horea Feier
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square nr. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Irena Tabain
- Department of Virology, Croatian Institute of Public Health, Rockefeller str. 12, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Marius Craina
- Department of Obstetrics-Gynecology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square nr. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (F.G.); (M.C.); (D.N.)
| | - Octavian Cretu
- Department of Surgery, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square nr. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Dan Navolan
- Department of Obstetrics-Gynecology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square nr. 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (F.G.); (M.C.); (D.N.)
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40
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Kara H, Demirtaş MS. Increasing the Awareness of Autism Spectrum Disorder with Training of Pre-School Teachers and School Counselors in Turkey. JOURNAL OF CHILD SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1721514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
AbstractTraining programs for the awareness of autism for professions are supported under the leadership of the United Nations. Misinformation can cause socially destructive results as that which is incorrect is assumed to be known correctly. This study included a total of 308 participants comprising 226 (73.4%) preschool teachers and 82 (26.6%) school counselors. The basic questions related to the awareness and knowledge of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) were selected based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2). It was attempted to categorize the questions into four fields: (1) social interaction, (2) social communication and speech, (3) limited interest pattern with stereotypical and ritualistic behaviors, and (4) comorbidities, etiological characteristics, and the relationship between vaccinations and autism. The results of the study indicate that the awareness of ASD, including core symptoms, was extremely lacking in preschool teachers and school counselors. Moreover, they had extreme prejudice to information known to be incorrect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halil Kara
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Institute, Aksaray University Faculty of Medical Sciences, Aksaray, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Semih Demirtaş
- Faculty Pediatrist, Faculty of Medicine, Aksaray University Medical, Aksaray, Turkey
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Pollard AJ, Bijker EM. A guide to vaccinology: from basic principles to new developments. Nat Rev Immunol 2020; 21:83-100. [PMID: 33353987 PMCID: PMC7754704 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-020-00479-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 660] [Impact Index Per Article: 165.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Immunization is a cornerstone of public health policy and is demonstrably highly cost-effective when used to protect child health. Although it could be argued that immunology has not thus far contributed much to vaccine development, in that most of the vaccines we use today were developed and tested empirically, it is clear that there are major challenges ahead to develop new vaccines for difficult-to-target pathogens, for which we urgently need a better understanding of protective immunity. Moreover, recognition of the huge potential and challenges for vaccines to control disease outbreaks and protect the older population, together with the availability of an array of new technologies, make it the perfect time for immunologists to be involved in designing the next generation of powerful immunogens. This Review provides an introductory overview of vaccines, immunization and related issues and thereby aims to inform a broad scientific audience about the underlying immunological concepts. This Review, aimed at a broad scientific audience, provides an introductory guide to the history, development and immunological basis of vaccines, immunization and related issues to provide insight into the challenges facing immunologists who are designing the next generation of vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Pollard
- Oxford Vaccine Group, Department of Paediatrics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK. .,NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford University Hospitals Trust, Oxford, UK.
| | - Else M Bijker
- Oxford Vaccine Group, Department of Paediatrics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford University Hospitals Trust, Oxford, UK
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Xie T, Wei YY, Chen WF, Huang HN. Parallel evolution and response decision method for public sentiment based on system dynamics. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF OPERATIONAL RESEARCH 2020; 287:1131-1148. [PMID: 32834432 PMCID: PMC7244451 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejor.2020.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Governments face difficulties in policy making in many areas such as health, food safety, and large-scale projects where public perceptions can be misplaced. For example, the adoption of the MMR vaccine has been opposed due to the publicity indicating an erroneous link between the vaccine and autism. This research proposes the "Parallel Evolution and Response Decision Framework for Public Sentiments" as a real-time decision-making method to simulate and control the public sentiment evolution mechanisms. This framework is based on the theories of Parallel Control and Management (PCM) and System Dynamics (SD) and includes four iterative steps: namely, SD modelling, simulating, optimizing, and controlling. A concrete case of an anti-nuclear mass incident that sparked public sentiment in China is introduced as a study sample to test the effectiveness of the proposed method. In addition, the results indicate the effects by adjusting the key control variables of response strategies. These variables include response time, response capacity, and transparency of the government regarding public sentiment. Furthermore, the advantages and disadvantages of the proposed method will be analyzed to determine how it can be used by policy makers in predicting public opinion and offering effective response strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Xie
- School of Economics, Management and Law at the University of South China, Tian Xie, No. 28, West Changsheng Road, Hengyang City, Hunan Province, PR China
- Corresponding author at: School of Economics, Management and Law, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan Province, 421001, China.
| | - Yao-yao Wei
- School of Economics, Management and Law at the University of South China, Tian Xie, No. 28, West Changsheng Road, Hengyang City, Hunan Province, PR China
| | - Wei-fan Chen
- Information Sciences and Technology at The Pennsylvania State University, Wei-fan Chen, 44 University Drive, Dallas, PA 18612, United States
| | - Hai-nan Huang
- School of Economics, Management and Law at the University of South China, Tian Xie, No. 28, West Changsheng Road, Hengyang City, Hunan Province, PR China
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Becerra-Culqui TA, Getahun D, Chiu V, Sy LS, Tseng HF. The Association of Prenatal Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Acellular Pertussis (Tdap) Vaccination With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Am J Epidemiol 2020; 189:1163-1172. [PMID: 32378703 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwaa074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
As prenatal vaccinations become more prevalent, it is important to assess potential safety events. In a retrospective cohort study of Kaiser Permanente Southern California (Pasadena, California) mother-child pairs with birth dates during January 1, 2011-December 31, 2014, we investigated the association between prenatal tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccination and risk of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in offspring. Information on Tdap vaccination during pregnancy was obtained from electronic medical records. ADHD was defined by International Classification of Diseases codes (Ninth or Tenth Revision) and dispensed ADHD medication after age 3 years. Children were followed to the date of their first ADHD diagnosis, the end of Kaiser Permanente membership, or the end of follow-up (December 31, 2018). In Cox proportional hazards models, we estimated unadjusted and adjusted hazard ratios for the association between maternal Tdap vaccination and ADHD, with inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) used to adjust for confounding. Of 128,756 eligible mother-child pairs, 85,607 were included in the final sample. The ADHD incidence rate was 3.41 per 1,000 person-years in the Tdap-vaccinated women and 3.93 per 1,000 person-years in the unvaccinated (hazard ratio = 1.01, 95% confidence interval: 0.88, 1.16). The IPTW-adjusted analyses showed no association between prenatal Tdap vaccination and ADHD in offspring (hazard ratio = 1.00, 95% confidence interval: 0.88, 1.14). In this study, prenatal Tdap vaccination was not associated with ADHD risk in offspring, supporting recommendations to vaccinate pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy A Becerra-Culqui
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, California
| | - Darios Getahun
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, California
| | - Vicki Chiu
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, California
| | - Lina S Sy
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, California
| | - Hung Fu Tseng
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, California
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Holroyd TA, Sauer MA, Limaye RJ. Vaccine decision-making among parents of children on Medicaid with and without autism spectrum disorder. Vaccine 2020; 38:6777-6784. [PMID: 32917415 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2020.08.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The belief that there is a link between the MMR vaccine and autism has led to a decline in childhood-immunization uptake and a resurgence of preventable infectious diseases. This study aimed to understand how the vaccine decision-making process differed between parents with a child diagnosed with autism and parents with a child that did not have autism. METHODS Interviews were conducted in September-December 2018 with 24 racially and demographically diverse parents of children on Medicaid at two Baltimore clinics serving Medicaid patients, one of which only serves families of children with autism. We conducted a semi-structured, qualitative, in-person in-depth interview study to explore parental perceptions of vaccine-decision making. Interviews with participants were transcribed from audio recordings. We then extracted and analyzed the types of barriers each participant experienced. RESULTS Parent descriptions of their vaccine decision-making process focused on three primary factors: concerns about vaccines, the relationship between the child's provider and the parent, and risk perception. These findings are in line with existing literature that has articulated key factors in the vaccine decision-making process generally. Parents of a child with autism were more likely to consider the idea that vaccines were linked to autism in their decision-making process, and were less likely to be influenced by personalized recommendations from the child's health care provider. CONCLUSION Parental concerns about vaccines, the parent-provider relationship, and vaccine risk perception all contribute to vaccine decision-making among parents of children with and without ASD. However, providers may find it especially difficult to manage parental misconceptions about vaccines and developmental disabilities. Future studies can identify alternative communication techniques and determine what mechanisms may be more effective in encouraging vaccine acceptance among parents of children with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor A Holroyd
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, United States; International Vaccine Access Center, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, United States.
| | - Molly A Sauer
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, United States; International Vaccine Access Center, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, United States.
| | - Rupali J Limaye
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, United States; International Vaccine Access Center, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, United States; Institute for Vaccine Safety, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, United States; Department of Health, Behavior & Society, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, United States; Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, United States.
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45
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Arvin AM. Will Measles Virus or Humanity Win the International "Fitness" Challenge? Annu Rev Virol 2020; 6:iii-vii. [PMID: 31567068 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-vi-06-072619-100011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ann M Arvin
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94304, USA;
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46
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Akbas Gunes N. Parents' Perspectives about Vaccine Hesitancies and Vaccine Rejection, in the West of Turkey. J Pediatr Nurs 2020; 53:e186-e194. [PMID: 32354456 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedn.2020.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Revised: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to evaluate Turkish parents' perspectives on childhood vaccines. DESIGN AND METHODS 614 parents of the children between the ages of 0-14 years were included in the study for examining their perspectives about vaccine hesitation and rejection. Age, gender, educational level, number of children, and income levels of volunteer participants were recorded. In addition to the personal data, a questionnaire form with questions about vaccines and vaccination was prepared. RESULTS The mean age of the participants was found as 37.20 ± 6.84 years (range, 21 to 53). The rate of vaccine hesitancy was found to be statistically significantly and higher in men. A statistically higher number of women were affected by the opinions of the individuals around them related to vaccines. Moreover, the rate of hearing any negative information about vaccines increased as the level of education increased. The impact of an increase in the number of children and the income level of the participants on the survey parameters were evaluated and significant relationships were observed. CONCLUSIONS Vaccine rejection is a significant public health problem in the world and will continue to be the case in the world. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS In our country, it has been determined that men's hesitation rates are higher and women are more affected by the environment. Necessary trainings should be planned in this regard. Also, as the level of education affects opinions of the vaccine, many plans are needed to increase the level of education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurcan Akbas Gunes
- Bolu Abant Izzet Baysal University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Family Medicine, Turkey; Yeni Family Health Center, Eskisehir, Turkey.
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Shperling RB, Yogev Y. Adverse outcomes of measles infection during pregnancy and in the perinatal period. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2020; 35:1586-1591. [PMID: 32354242 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2020.1759536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Measles is a major public health concern. Recently, there has been an increase of measles infections worldwide due to low vaccination coverage in certain regions that allowed for the development of measles outbreak in susceptible populations. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there have been significant measles outbreaks in all WHO regions, and below 10% of cases were reported [1]. It is difficult to measure the impact of measles virus infection on pregnancy outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yariv Yogev
- Lis Maternity Hospital, Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
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48
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Rasmussen SA, Kancherla V, Conover E. Joint position statement on vaccines from the Society for Birth Defects Research and Prevention and the Organization of Teratology Information Specialists. Birth Defects Res 2020; 112:527-534. [PMID: 32270605 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.1674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sonja A Rasmussen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida, USA.,Department of Epidemiology, University of Florida College of Public Health and Health Professions and College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Vijaya Kancherla
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Elizabeth Conover
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Munroe Meyer Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
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Costantino C, Caracci F, Brandi M, Bono SE, Ferro A, Sannasardo CE, Scarpitta F, Siddu A, Vella C, Ventura G, Vitale F, Casuccio A, Restivo V. Determinants of vaccine hesitancy and effectiveness of vaccination counseling interventions among a sample of the general population in Palermo, Italy. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2020; 16:2415-2421. [PMID: 32186961 PMCID: PMC7644245 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2020.1728157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Counteract vaccine hesitancy is a public health priority. Main objectives of the cross-sectional study conducted were to evaluate knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors regarding vaccination issues, to estimate the prevalence of vaccine hesitancy and to estimate the effectiveness of vaccination counseling on community advocacy in a sample of general population. An anonymous validated questionnaire was administered in April 2017 at the main shopping center of Palermo and was followed by tailored vaccination counseling interventions. To estimate the effectiveness of the interventions four main connection parameters to the vaccinarsi.org website were evaluated, in the two months before and after the intervention and in the two months before the intervention compared with the same period of previous and following years. Among the 299 subject enrolled 12.7% were hesitant about vaccinations, and 4.7% declared being against vaccinations. General practitioners (GPs) and pediatricians were the most affordable source of information about vaccinations. A higher probability of vaccination hesitancy/refusal was reported among subjects who considered "alternative strategies" the best way for the prevention of infectious diseases (adj-OR = 7.01, IC95% 2.88-17.09, p-value < 0.001). A considerable increase of all the vaccinarsi.org website indicators analyzed was observed, from the area in which survey participants lived. Prevalence of vaccine hesitancy among population surveyed is consistent with the literature data. HCWs, such as GPs and pediatricians, should play a key role in modifying personal convictions and choices about vaccinations. A proper vaccination counseling could improve attitudes regarding vaccination issues, such as quality of web-based research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Costantino
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo , Palermo, Italy
| | - Francesca Caracci
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo , Palermo, Italy
| | - Mariarosa Brandi
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo , Palermo, Italy
| | - Stefania Enza Bono
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo , Palermo, Italy
| | - Antonio Ferro
- Prevention Department, AULSS 6 Euganea , Padova, Italy
| | - Claudia Emilia Sannasardo
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo , Palermo, Italy
| | - Francesco Scarpitta
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo , Palermo, Italy
| | - Andrea Siddu
- Prevention Department, APSS Trento , Trento, Italy
| | - Carlotta Vella
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo , Palermo, Italy
| | - Gianmarco Ventura
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo , Palermo, Italy
| | - Francesco Vitale
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo , Palermo, Italy
| | - Alessandra Casuccio
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo , Palermo, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Restivo
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo , Palermo, Italy
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Rochel de Camargo Jr K. Here we go again: the reemergence of anti-vaccine activism on the Internet. CAD SAUDE PUBLICA 2020; 36 Suppl 2:e00037620. [DOI: 10.1590/0102-311x00037620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract: This essay discusses the resurgence of anti-vaccine activism in recent years, based on relevant literature and the author’s own experiences. After presenting possible reasons for the reemergence of such movements and their consequences, the author analyses the role of Internet-mediated communication in amplifying this discourse and making it less amenable to criticism, presenting some of the main arguments deployed by the anti-vaccine agents in their discussions. The text concludes with a draft of possible responses to this increasingly worrying phenomenon.
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