A qualitative investigation of vaccine risk perception amongst parents who immunize their children: a matter of public health concern

Abstract

Background: Little is known about risk perception amongst parents who have their children immunized, as opposed to those who do not. Our objective was to assess their vaccine risk perception and thereby to identify strategies to prevent further deterioration in uptake.

Methods: An in-depth interview study was conducted with parents in two nurseries, one urban and one rural in Norfolk, together with a pilot study. All their children were fully immunized. Topics related to parents' vaccine risk perceptions.

Results: Certain known risk characteristics were attributable to the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine, including feeling of dread, lack of control and doubt in scientific knowledge. Furthermore, this study re-emphasizes that parents lack trust in government agencies and may have doubts in the medical profession as the 'managers' of vaccine risk.

Conclusions: Results highlighted an urgent need to address concerns amongst parents who immunize, to prevent them changing their practice in the face of further vaccine controversies.