Vaccine Coverage and Associated Factors

Introduction to Vaccine Coverage

The lack of availability of biological products (vaccines) is the primary factor associated with vaccination failures in children under 2 years, as demonstrated by the statistically significant association found in the mentioned study 1
Interruptions in vaccine supply represent a significant problem affecting infant vaccination coverage, with multiple vaccines experiencing shortages in recent years, including Hib, hepatitis B, influenza, and others, leading to missed immunization opportunities 2
These interruptions can last for extended periods, leaving cohorts of children without completing their vaccination schedule 2

The high cost of acquiring, storing, and administering vaccines represents a significant barrier to complete vaccination, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics 2
Vaccine distribution systems are poorly integrated, affecting availability in different regions, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 2
The time and means of transportation required to reach health centers are significantly associated with incomplete vaccination, although this fact is not supported by a reference in this context

54% of parents express concern about serious adverse effects of vaccines, which may influence the decision to vaccinate, as found by the American Academy of Pediatrics 3
Inconsistent or non-urgent recommendations by healthcare providers are one of the major challenges for immunization, as stated by the American Academy of Pediatrics 3

Up to 80% of pediatric deaths associated with influenza have occurred in unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated children, highlighting the importance of complete vaccination, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 4

Implementing reminder/recall systems for children with delayed vaccinations will be easier with the adoption of electronic health records, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics 2
Strengthening personal contact between informed, attentive, and concerned pediatricians and parents is crucial for improving vaccine acceptance, as emphasized by the American Academy of Pediatrics 1