PD039 - PEDIATRICIANS’ PERCEPTIONS AND PRACTICES ON COVID-19 VACCINES FOR CHILDREN: A CROSS-SECTIONAL SURVEY IN ONTARIO, CANADA (ID 1877)
Abstract
Backgrounds:
SARS-CoV-2 vaccination of all age-eligible populations is an important part of the COVID-19 pandemic response. In Ontario, vaccination coverage remains sub-optimal in the 5–11-year group. We sought to understand pediatricians’ perception, practices, and barriers to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in children aged 5-11, to inform interventions and promote capacity of pediatricians as vaccinators and vaccination promoters.
Methods:
This is a descriptive, cross-sectional study consisting of an online self-administered questionnaire distributed to 1,313 pediatricians in Ontario. Chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests were performed where appropriate.
Results:
In total, 149 Pediatricians responded (11.3% response rate), from February 17, 2022 to March 11, 2022. 77% of respondents were general pediatricians and 23% were pediatric subspecialists. Median years of practice was 17 (5.75-25), with 66% female, 33% male. Most pediatricians thought it was unlikely that children aged 5-11 would become seriously ill from acute COVID-19 caused by Delta (66%) or Omicron (81%). 92% were very likely to recommend the COVID-19 vaccine for children aged 5-11, and 24% reported administering COVID-19 vaccines. COVID-19 vaccine was perceived as safe, with higher safety perception in children aged 5-11 compared to 12-17 (p=0.04, Figure 1a). COVID-19 vaccines were thought to be effective in reducing hospitalization or severe illness, and reducing SARS-CoV-2 infection, with higher perceived effectiveness against Delta compared to Omicron (p<0.0001, Figure 1b). 66% were very confident in their COVID-19 vaccine counselling for children aged 5-11. Few pediatricians did not feel confident in accessing resources for health professionals (6%) or for patients/caregivers (11%).
Conclusions/Learning Points:
Most surveyed pediatricians were very likely to recommend the COVID-19 vaccination for children aged 5-11 years, and perceived COVID-19 vaccines as safe and effective. Areas for further training and capacity development were identified.
