Vaccine safety perceptions and experience with adverse events following immunization in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan: a summary of key informant interviews and focus groups

Abstract

Few studies have examined vaccine safety attitudes in developing countries and countries in economic transition. The objectives of this study were to identify concerns about immunizations and strategies to address these concerns in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, two Central Asian countries in economic transition. Qualitative text analysis was conducted on 16 focus groups and 24 key informant interviews to identify discussion themes related to the study objectives. Specific areas of concern included: adverse events following immunizations, vaccine quality, healthcare worker competence, and lack of vaccine information available to parents. Focus group participants also suggested relevant topics and sources for informational materials.