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. 2019 Jul 1;28(3):126-130.
doi: 10.1891/1058-1243.28.3.126.

Distinguishing Subgroups in Opposition to Infant Immunization: Results From the Listening to Mothers III Survey

Erika R Cheng, Brittany Ranchoff, Eugene R Declercq

Distinguishing Subgroups in Opposition to Infant Immunization: Results From the Listening to Mothers III Survey

Erika R Cheng et al. J Perinat Educ. .

Abstract

Objective: To investigate factors associated with parental intention of refusing or altering their child's vaccination schedule.

Methods: Data were from the 2011-2012 Listening to Mothers III survey (N = 1,053). Weighted bivariate and multivariate analyses examined factors related to refusing or altering vaccination.

Results: 3.2% of mothers planned to refuse vaccination and 12.3% preferred to alter the recommended schedule. Preference to refuse was associated with maternal age <25 years (AOR 4.33; 95% CI: 1.18, 15.9), prior refusal of maternity care (AOR 6.04; 95% CI: 1.88, 19.4), and living outside of the Northeast. Schedule modification was only associated with prior refusal of care.

Conclusions: Mothers preferring not to immunize their children and those wishing to alter the vaccination schedule represent two distinct groups.

Keywords: immunization; maternal and child health; public health prevention; vaccine; vaccine hesitancy.

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