RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Opportunistic influenza vaccination in the home: broadening access in isolated times
JF Archives of Disease in Childhood
JO Arch Dis Child
FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd and Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health
SP 812
OP 814
DO 10.1136/archdischild-2020-320273
VO 106
IS 8
A1 Lauren Claire Nisbet
A1 Annie M Cobbledick
A1 Tessa E Smith
A1 Penelope A Bryant
A1 Joanna Lawrence
YR 2021
UL http://adc.bmj.com/content/106/8/812.abstract
AB Background Influenza is a vaccine-preventable infection that causes serious illness. The mandate to prevent an influenza epidemic has increased with the COVID-19 pandemic. However, isolation restrictions have reduced interactions with healthcare professionals. We aimed to determine whether these barriers could be overcome by offering vaccination via an ambulatory setting for the first time.Methods During a 12-week period, patients receiving care through the Hospital-in-the-Home programme were offered immunisation during their home visit. Logistical cold chain barriers were addressed, and patient acceptance was measured.Results Cooler boxes with temperature loggers were designed to monitor the cold chain. 157 eligible patients were contacted, of whom 96 (61%) consented and received in-home injectable influenza vaccine, with no major adverse events. 52/96 (54%) were first-time influenza vaccine recipients. Most refusals (28/41, 68%) were for immunisation concerns, not home administration.Conclusion This pilot shows ambulatory influenza vaccination is feasible, safe and overcomes some barriers.De-identified data are available on reasonable request.