Factors associated with observation of side-effects: child flu vaccine
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Factors associated with parental observation of side effects following the child flu vaccine
IRAS ID
192325
Contact name
G James Rubin
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
King's College London
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 1 months, 1 days
Research summary
Background to the research:
In 2012, flu has been added to the list of recommended childhood immunisations to try to limit the number of children who suffer with complications as a result of flu and to limit the spread of flu within the community. Since then, uptake of the vaccine has been around 30-40%. Previous research suggests that concerns about the vaccine causing side-effects are a major barrier. Although symptoms are common following vaccination, the cause of these symptoms is not always clear. While some symptoms are undoubtedly caused by the immunization, others may be caused or exacerbated by psychological processes. In this study, we will explore possible psychological predictors for symptoms that are reported in children following the flu vaccination.
Why it is important:
Seasonal influenza kills around 8000 people per year. Preliminary data indicate a decrease in the number of people seeking help from GPs for influenza-like illness in areas where the child flu vaccine has been piloted. If we can communicate better about the side effects associated with the vaccine then this may improve uptake of the vaccine and reduce parental concern.Study design:
Parents of children aged 2-4 will complete a brief questionnaire prior to their child’s flu vaccination. Three days and one month after their child’s vaccination, parents will be asked to complete follow-up questionnaires. At the end of the following flu season (2017-18), vaccination records will be checked, or if unavailable, parents will be asked to ascertain children’s vaccination status.Recruitment:
Parents will be recruited from GP surgeries in South London.Funding:
The project forms part of a PhD studentship funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC). The project is being completed within the National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Emergency Preparedness and Response at King’s College London.REC name
London - Harrow Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/LO/1003
Date of REC Opinion
20 Jul 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion