Influenza vaccination in patients with haematologic malignancies: analysis of practices in 200 patients in a single center

Abstract

Goals of work: Despite recent studies demonstrating immunogenicity and tolerance of influenza vaccine in patients with haematologic malignancies, practices are still heterogeneous. The aim of this study was to analyse practices and factors influencing vaccination in a single centre, in the light of recent literature data.

Patients and methods: Two hundred patients with haematologic malignancies were included and filled out a standardized questionnaire about influenza vaccination. They were observed prospectively during the epidemic season.

Main results: Our study revealed a poor uptake of influenza vaccination (vaccinal rate: 25.5%), in particular in patients younger than 65 y and those with no comorbidities. The main reasons for not being vaccinated were: the vaccination was not suggested to patients (53.7%), vaccination was contraindicated by doctors (24.2%), the patient refused it (21.5%). The main reasons for physicians for contraindicating the vaccine were: haematologic malignancy could be worsened by vaccination (33.3%), vaccination could generate illness or asthenia (27.8%), vaccination would not be efficient (16.7%), unknown (22.2%).

Conclusions: We believe that a better knowledge by physicians of tolerance and efficiency of the vaccine could enhance the vaccination coverage.