Attitudes to immunisation in pregnancy among women in the UK targeted by such programmes

Introduction: Vaccines in pregnancy can minimise diseases with associated high morbidity and mortality in pregnant women, their unborn and newly born infants. Immunisations against influenza and pertussis are routinely offered in pregnancy in a number of countries including the UK, US, Australia and Belgium, but vaccine uptake could be improved. Methods: In January 2013, an online survey of pregnant women and women with children under 2 years of age was undertaken. The survey focused on vaccination in pregnancy. Results and conclusions: Of 1892 respondents, the majority indicated they definitely, or probably, would accept a nationally-approved vaccine offered by their midwife or GP during pregnancy for their own protection (94%) and/or to protect their baby when it was born (96%). Vaccine safety for the baby and for the woman, vaccine effectiveness and perceived seriousness of the disease remain key considerations for women. Health professionals, midwives in particular, are pivotal in informing women, promoting the vaccine and discussing concerns.