Perspectives of Pulmonologists on the 2009-2010 H1N1 Vaccination Effort

Abstract EN

Persons with high-risk conditions such as asthma were a target group for H1N1 vaccine recommendations.

We conducted a mailed survey of a national sample of pulmonologists to understand their participation in the 2009-2010 H1N1 vaccine campaign.

The response rate was 59%.

The majority of pulmonologists strongly recommended H1N1 vaccine for children (73%) and adults aged 25–64 years (51%).

Only 60% of respondents administered H1N1 vaccine in their practice compared to 87% who offered seasonal influenza vaccine.

Other than vaccine supply, respondents who provided H1N1 vaccine reported few logistical problems.

Two-thirds of respondents would be very likely to vaccinate during a future influenza pandemic; this rate was higher among those who provided H1N1 vaccine and/or seasonal flu vaccine.

In total, the H1N1 vaccine-related experiences of pulmonologists seemed to be positive.

However, additional efforts are needed to increase participation in future pandemic vaccination campaigns.