Evaluating communication methods and their impact on vaccination rates in early childhood

Abstract

Yearly vaccination against seasonal influenza is the most effective prevention against an illness with especially dangerous implications for young children. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends two doses of influenza vaccine in the first eligible flu season for young children under the age of two. Communication of reminders for the second dose can be an integral aspect of improving rates at which young children receive the recommended two doses of influenza vaccine. Not all methods of communication are as effective, and the understanding and evaluation of each respective method provides the healthcare professional with information about how to best reach their families/caregivers with important information. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate these methods as they pertain to not only influenza vaccination rates, but also other routinely recommended early childhood vaccines. While technological advances have brought about many new and innovative ways to communicate with families, the literature suggests that reminder telephone calls remain the most effective method to communicate regarding vaccines which are due. New research is also emerging on this topic and will likely further guide the way in which healthcare providers communicate with their patients and families/caregivers. Sustainable improvement in uptake of vaccine rates are specific to the type of vaccine. Trends specific to the seasonal influenza vaccine will also be evaluated through the course of this paper to identify and evaluate additional interventions which may be necessary to achieve sustained improvement to protect the youngest members of our population.