Perspectives of pulmonologists on the 2009-2010 H1N1 vaccination effort

Abstract

Persons with high-risk conditions such as asthma were a target group for H1N1 vaccine recommendations. We conducted a mailed survey of a national sample of pulmonologists to understand their participation in the 2009-2010 H1N1 vaccine campaign. The response rate was 59. The majority of pulmonologists strongly recommended H1N1 vaccine for children (73) and adults aged 2564 years (51). Only 60 of respondents administered H1N1 vaccine in their practice compared to 87 who offered seasonal influenza vaccine. Other than vaccine supply, respondents who provided H1N1 vaccine reported few logistical problems. Two-thirds of respondents would be very likely to vaccinate during a future influenza pandemic; this rate was higher among those who provided H1N1 vaccine and/or seasonal flu vaccine. In total, the H1N1 vaccine-related experiences of pulmonologists seemed to be positive. However, additional efforts are needed to increase participation in future pandemic vaccination campaigns. © Copyright 2012 Sarah J. Clark et al.