Influenza immunization in pregnancy: overcoming patient and health care provider barriers

Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2012 Sep;207(3 Suppl):S67-74. doi: 10.1016/j.ajog.2012.06.077. Epub 2012 Jul 9.

Abstract

Seasonal influenza imparts disproportionate morbidity and death to pregnant women. Immunization against influenza is the most effective intervention to mitigate the burden of influenza disease during pregnancy; nevertheless, immunization rates remain suboptimal in this patient population. Therefore, there is a clear need for strategies to optimize influenza vaccination among pregnant women. We reviewed potential patient and health care provider barriers to influenza immunization and propose effective strategies for overcoming them.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Directive Counseling
  • Female
  • Guideline Adherence
  • Health Promotion
  • Health Services Accessibility*
  • Humans
  • Influenza Vaccines / administration & dosage
  • Influenza Vaccines / adverse effects
  • Influenza, Human / prevention & control*
  • Patient Acceptance of Health Care*
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic
  • Practice Patterns, Physicians'*
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications, Infectious / prevention & control*
  • Prenatal Care*
  • United States
  • Vaccination*

Substances

  • Influenza Vaccines