Pediatrics

Background: In 2015, ACIP recommended 16–23 year olds may be vaccinated with serogroup B meningococcal (MenB) vaccine based on individual clinical decision-making (Category B). Objective: To assess among US pediatricians (Peds) and family physicians (FPs): 1) practices regarding MenB vaccine delivery; 2) factors influencing a decision to recommend vaccine; 3) factors associated with discussing MenB vaccine at 16–18 year-old routine visits. Design/Methods: We surveyed a nationally representative sample of Peds and FPs by e-mail and internet from 10–12/2016. Results: The response rate was 72% (660/916). During routine visits, 51% of Peds and 31% of FPs reported always/often discussing MenB vaccine. Among those who discussed often/always, 91% recommended vaccination; among those who never/rarely discussed, 11% recommended. 73% of Peds and 41% of FPs currently administered MenB vaccine. While many providers reported not knowing about factors influencing recommendation decisions, serogroup B meningococcal disease outbreaks (89%), disease incidence (62%), and effectiveness (52%), safety (48%), and duration of protection of MenB vaccine (39%) increased likelihood of recommending while the Category B recommendation (45%) decreased likelihood. Those somewhat/not at all aware of MenB vaccine [Risk Ratio 0.32 (95% CI 0.25–0.41)] and those practicing in an HMO [0.39 (0.18–0.87)] were less likely whereas those aware of disease outbreaks in their state [1.25 (1.08–1.45)] were more likely to initiate a discussion about MenB vaccine. Conclusion(s): Primary care physicians have significant gaps in knowledge about serogroup B meningococcal disease and MenB vaccine and this appears to be a major driver of the decision not to discuss the vaccines.

30126935

PMC6200322

Journal Article

CDC Public Access